Stepping into Frank Dunnivant’s office feels like entering a mini jungle with tall plants stretching up to the ceiling. Dressed in a purple tie-dye shirt, Frank sits comfortably, legs crossed, in his swivel chair. When I mention the snow outside, he chuckles, saying he wears his Birkenstock sandals all year round—no socks needed.
Frank has been teaching chemistry at Whitman College since 1999. He earned his bachelor’s in Environmental Health from Auburn University and later obtained his Master’s and Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Clemson University. As an environmental chemist, he’s worked on numerous projects, particularly focusing on PCBs and hazardous chemicals. Apart from teaching, Frank helps shape the environmental studies program and previously chaired the chemistry department.
Wire: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and why you chose Whitman?
Frank Dunnivant: I’m Frank Dunnivant, and I started my journey here in 1999. Before Whitman, I moved around a lot, living in various states and countries. When I got the job offer here, I jumped at it.
Wire: What attracted you to the Pacific Northwest?
FD: I used to come here to catch Grateful Dead concerts in the 90s. The vibe of this place really pulled me in.
Wire: Why did you choose to teach?
FD: I’ve tried many paths with my chemistry degree, but teaching has been my favorite by far. I’m 67, and retirement is not on my mind. The best part of my job is watching students grow during their time here. They come in enthusiastic yet nervous, and by the end, their confidence really shines.
Wire: What sparked your interest in chemistry?
FD: I grew up on a farm in Alabama and was the second in my family to go to college. My high school grades weren’t great, so I started at a community college. I took almost every course available, and eventually, I was drawn to environmental health. I loved all my classes, but science, especially math, caught my attention.
After a mentor’s encouragement, I pursued graduate school, which led me to a consulting role during the environmental boom of the 70s. I learned more in the field than in school. But once it became repetitive, I decided to get my master’s and Ph.D. I then traveled for work, gathering experience in different countries.
Wire: That sounds like an adventure!
FD: It was! Not a typical route, but I thrived on it. I got to live in places like Switzerland and worked for the U.S. Department of Energy. Eventually, I landed a teaching job at a small liberal arts college in New York, which made me realize how rewarding teaching can be. Leaving that for Whitman—closer to nature—felt just right. I thought I might not stay long because of my nomadic nature, but I’ve grown roots here.
Wire: You’ve spoken passionately about your work. What insights do you have about chemistry and health?
FD: One surprising fact is about the “dirty dozen” fruits and veggies, especially non-organic strawberries, which are among the worst for chemical exposure. In class, we analyze these foods, and I realized how much my household relies on organic options to avoid harmful chemicals.
Wire: Are the dirty dozen primarily pesticide-laden?
FD: Yes, they’ve been tested, and the results show significant pesticide exposure. In my labs, we study specific chemicals like Captan, a fungicide used on strawberries. It’s used to enhance their look but makes me cautious about what I eat.
Wire: Besides the dirty dozen, what other foods should people steer clear of?
FD: Fish higher up the food chain often contain harmful elements like mercury and PCBs. Sustainable salmon from our region is a good option, but farmed fish can be more polluted.
Wire: How do high-level fish accumulate mercury?
FD: Mercury comes from natural sources like volcanoes and man-made sources like coal plants, which are decreasing in the U.S., but still proliferate in other countries. Thankfully, renewable energy is becoming more prominent.
Wire: Any additional concerns related to chemicals in food?
FD: Yes, there’s growing concern about early puberty in children, particularly girls in the U.S. This might relate to the chemical exposure from food, cosmetics, and air. Countries with lower chemical exposure have better health outcomes.
Wire: And what about microplastics?
FD: Microplastics are pervasive—they’ve been found everywhere, even in human organs. While we don’t fully understand their impact, their presence is troubling. One big concern in my household is microwave popcorn, which contains harmful substances. We switched to making regular popcorn instead.
Wire: With all this knowledge, do you have specific dietary choices?
FD: It’s more about what we don’t eat. My family focuses on healthy organic foods when we can.
Wire: Would you say chemistry plays a significant role in health?
FD: Absolutely! But it’s essential to integrate all sciences for a complete understanding. That’s why we have an emphasis on combined majors at Whitman.
Wire: Any final thoughts?
Frank: Stay in school and keep learning. That’s key!
