“We are so grateful to the VFW and all of our donors for supporting our work,” said Dr. Jennifer Bengtston, a professor in the Department of History and Anthropology. “We, along with our lab partners, do everything we can to keep costs down, but the expenses can add up. We would not be able to do this work without the generous support of donors.”

The VFW became involved after learning that Dr. Bengtson and her students had successfully helped identify the remains of Everette Guy Travis, a veteran. They expressed a desire to fund an entire cold case investigation from start to finish, highlighting their commitment to supporting forensic science initiatives.

Funding a cold case resolution typically requires around $7,500, with the majority of expenses directed towards DNA extraction and genomic sequencing. Much of this funding is sourced from donations, like that of the VFW, and from the Forensic Anthropology giving page.

Dr. Bengtson and her students work alongside Othram, a lab dedicated to resolving cases of unidentified human remains through advanced forensic science techniques. Othram specializes in genomic sequencing and genealogical research, while Dr. Bengtson’s team collaborates with the Center for Applied Isotope Studies in Georgia for isotopic testing, which provides insights into aspects such as birthplace, travel history, and age. The team actively searches online databases for cases where they can assist and reaches out to relevant law enforcement agencies. To date, Southeast students have played a crucial role in identifying six sets of remains through their dedicated work.

“My students benefit by applying their skills to real cases, law enforcement receives assistance with cases they often lack the resources to resolve on their own, and families get answers and have their missing loved ones returned to them,” Bengston said. “For those six families, it means the world to finally reunite with their loved ones and get some answers about what happened to them after decades of wondering and waiting”

Southeast’s Department of History and Anthropology offers hands on learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels in social studies, history, social science, public history, anthropology, and global studies. Students learn from experts in the field and utilize out-of-classroom opportunities to garner skills for their careers.

Applying To SEMO

New Missouri undergraduate students with a 2.75 high school GPA and who are eligible for Pell Grants won’t pay any tuition or fees at Southeast Missouri State. The Will To Do Award will cover all tuition and fees that aren’t covered by other scholarships and grants.

Prospective students are encouraged to visit campus. Southeast will host its premiere visit day, Show Me Day on March 23.