Biography
Calvin Runnels, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a senior at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is pursuing a B.Sc. in Biochemistry and maintains a 4.0 GPA. Calvin's research investigates the primitive protein and RNA folding structures fossilized in the ribosome, which may provide insight into the origins of life. A passionate educator, Calvin is dedicated to "helping others find the joy and satisfaction in learning as I have." At Georgia Tech, Calvin has been recognized as among the highest rated Teaching Assistants for his work in undergraduate mathematics. An effective activist, Calvin has helped to organize a rally in solidarity with the immigrant community and has led efforts to increase the number of gender-neutral bathrooms on campus. Calvin was also appointed by the President of Georgia Tech to co-chair the university's LGBTQIA Action Committee. Calvin is a transgender male. He follows Pema McLaughlin, the first self-acknowledged transgender American Rhodes Scholar (elected in 2016).