Brestoff '08 wins Mitchell scholarship to study in Ireland

Jonathan Brestoff ?08 has won a George J. Mitchell Scholarship, which will support a year of study in Ireland. Brestoff, who will enroll at University College Cork, will study public health policy and work toward completing a master of public health degree.

This is not the first national scholarship for Brestoff, who received a two-year Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for math, science, and engineering students during his sophomore year at Skidmore.

A double major in exercise science and chemistry, Brestoff devoted much of his time as an undergrad to researching the origin Type 2 diabetes. Working with faculty mentor Thomas H. Reynolds, Brestoff conducted a series of experiments that proved the use of the antioxidant MnTBAP enhanced insulin sensitivity and reduced overall weight.

His early struggle with obesity sparked both his research and an interest in helping others to learn about proper nutrition. Toward that end, Brestoff was a founder of Skidmore?s Nutrition Action Council, a student club that works on campus and in the Saratoga Springs community to raise awareness about healthy eating. Brestoff also held several offices in the Student Government Association, including serving as president during the 2007-08 academic year.

Following graduation last May, Brestoff enrolled in a joint M.D./Ph.D. program in genetics and gene regulation at the University of Pennsylvania. He continues to focus on preventing Type 2 diabetes and obesity, and is in the process of patenting an anti-obesity compound that he discovered.

Brestoff is the son of Lois and Nick Brestoff of Valencia, Calif. Click here to read more about Brestoff.

Named in honor of the former United States senator from Maine who served as chairman of the peace negotiations in Northern Ireland, the George J. Mitchell Scholarship is a national competitive fellowship sponsored by the US-Ireland Alliance. The scholarship is designed to introduce and connect generations of future American leaders to the island of Ireland, while recognizing and fostering intellectual achievement, leadership, and a commitment to public service and community.

Twelve Mitchell Scholars between the ages of 18 and 30 are chosen annually for one year of postgraduate study in any discipline offered by institutions of higher learning in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Applicants are judged on three criteria: academic excellence, leadership, and a sustained commitment to service and community. The Mitchell Scholarship provides tuition, housing, a living expenses stipend, and an international travel stipend.