Connecticut student creates air filter system that helps fight against airborne viruses

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Connecticut student Eniola Shokunbi is leading a statewide effort to expand a low‑cost air filter system that fights against airborne viruses. Her innovative classroom project inspired $11.5 million in state investment.

Young Innovator Eniola Shokunbi Sparks Statewide Clean‑Air Movement with Air Filter System

Shokunbi first built the device in fifth grade at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown. She hopes to become president one day, but she now works to improve school air quality.

Low‑Cost Design, High‑Impact Results

Shokunbi and her classmates built a Corsi‑Rosenthal box, a filtration device made from a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape and cardboard. It costs about $60 and takes 30 minutes to assemble.

“The air goes through all the sides,” Shokunbi told NBC Connecticut. “And it comes out of the top, so it filters in and out.”

Students partnered with University of Connecticut scientists to test the device. The Environmental Protection Agency certified that the filter removes over 99% of airborne viruses in one hour, including cold and COVID‑related particles.

“Making the air filters was actually really easy,” Shokunbi told the American Lung Association . “Something so simple can make such a big impact.”

State Approves $11.5 Million for School to Install Air Filter System

The State Bond Commission unanimously approved $11.5 million to build and install the filters in schools across Connecticut. The funding supports UConn’s Supplemental Air Filtration for Education Program, which will expand the project statewide.

Shokunbi will help train students in other districts. She said she wants every child to learn in a safe, healthy environment.

“I want them to go to school knowing that they’re safe, that they’re healthy, that they can learn,” she said. “This could change so many lives.”

A Mission Sparked by a Stuffy Classroom

Shokunbi told American Lung Association she first noticed the issue when her classroom felt “really stuffy” with doors and windows closed. “My friends were often catching colds and other sicknesses,” she said. “Students should learn in a clean and healthy environment.”

Her interest grew after reading about air filters used in the White House. She wrote to Marina Creed, APRN, director of the UConn Indoor Air Quality Initiative, asking for blueprints.

Creed responded by sending the plans and surprising the class with a team of scientists who taught lessons on air pollution and climate change.

“Seeing how amazing and passionate these women in science were was really inspirational,” Shokunbi said.

Family Support and National Vision

Her mother, Funmiké Shokunbi, told American Lung Association, Eniola has always shown determination.

“Since the moment she was born, Eniola has always been exceptional,” she said. “She has such lofty dreams and is confident she can overcome any obstacle.”

Shokunbi said she hopes her work inspires others.

“Your voice matters,” she told American Lung Association. “If you are determined, you can do whatever you set your mind to.”

Goal: Clean Air in Every Classroom

Although the project began in one Connecticut school, Shokunbi said she wants the filters in classrooms nationwide.

“I love seeing people realize this could change so many lives,” she said.