In January 2022, the TESI Environmental Leaders Fellows began to hone in on their final projects in partnership with various community and campus organizations like Zero Waste Gainesville, UF Office of Sustainability and the Scientist in Every Florida School program. They have also begun to meet with their mentors to gain advice on career paths they may decide to take upon graduation.

For January’s seminar, students heard from Dr. Ruth Steiner, professor and director of the UF Center for Health and the Built Environment. She spoke to fellows about planning for sustainable modes of transportation, and its impact on communities, the environment, and public health.

In February, the cohort will attend the UF Water Institute Symposium to be exposed to Florida’s complex water issues as well as various water-focused careers. They will also gain valuable conference and networking skills. And, in March the group will embark on a multi-day Spring Break field experience where they will learn more about living shorelines and aquaculture in Cedar Key, have a chance to tag horseshoe crabs, visit a local farm to learn about sustainable agriculture, and much more! Stay tuned for more updates!

To learn more about the fellowship, visit: UF TESI Environmental Leaders Fellowship