Major: Earth and Environmental Sciences
Hometown: Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Object: Quartz rock from cross country EES field camp
Meaning Behind the Object:
On an Earth and environmental sciences (EES) department tour out west, Ransom found a rock during the field experience that shines with flecks of quartz. She picked it up in Idaho, on a stop that would take the group on to various national parks. Ransom noted it’s a “conglomerate rock” meaning that it is different types of rock cemented together: similar to her time at Lehigh where vibrant moments all came together to shape one full experience.
Ransom said her professors and mentors, Frank Pazzaglia, professor of Earth and environmental sciences, and John-Paul Balmonte, assistant professor, made her passionate in subjects she never thought she’d find passion in.
“John-Paul Balmonte, who’s my advisor for my senior thesis, is the most motivating and supportive person to work with and has made me a better person by just being around him.”
Ransom is continuing her research at Lehigh over the summer and into the fall semester, with plans to join a Fulbright scholarship.
The Class of 2026 reflects on the keepsakes, memories and milestones that shaped their Lehigh experience. Through personal stories and meaningful objects, these Future Makers share moments of growth, discovery and connection. Read the stories behind the keepsakes
