The EPOC Environmental Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 to assist qualified applicants who are attending a college or university (in CT or out of state) and have declared majors pertinent to the environmental field. The scholarships are awarded annually to junior, senior, and graduate level students (full or part-time) enrolled in accepted programs of study leading the student to become a Technical Environmental Professional in the State of Connecticut as defined by the CT DEEP, or a professional in a related service discipline who may render technical assistance to the Technical Environmental Professional. EPOC would like to express its thanks to all the students applying for a scholarship this year. At recent meetings of the EPOC Scholarship Fund Committee, scholarship applicants were reviewed and voted on. We extend our congratulations to the following award winners:
Julia Augustyn
Julia is a resident of Weston and is attending Wesleyan University as a senior for the coming academic year majoring in Earth and Environmental Science. From Julia’s application: My current degree will serve as a foundation for further schooling in a field focused on water resources, such as hydrogeology or water resource management. With increasing population growth, urbanization, and climate change impacts, the demand for water is intensifying while water scarcity becomes more prevalent. By working in water conservation, I can contribute to sustainable water management practices that ensure equitable access to clean water for communities and ecosystems. I want to join the professionals in this field that are innovating solutions, implementing efficient technologies, and advocating for policies that prioritize water conservation and resilience in the face of environmental changes.
Kristi Gagnon
Kristi is a resident of New Hartford and is a graduate student at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD and is pursuing a master’s in Environmental Engineering and Science. From Kristi’s application: I am aiming to study topics such as radioactive and hazard waste management, environmental monitoring and sampling, environmental chemistry, and environmental law for engineers and scientists. I strongly believe that someone working as an environmental professional can benefit greatly both from direct experience as well as formal education. I believe that this degree will continue my personal development while on track to become a Licensed Environmental Professional. This master’s degree has once again strengthened my commitment to continue to help make Connecticut a healthier environment by working as an environmental scientist.
Zoe Prevost
Zoe is a resident of Enfield and is attending Central Connecticut State University as a junior for the coming academic year majoring in Earth Science with a concentration in Environmental Geology. From Zoe’s application: I chose to major in Earth Science because of the complexity and urgency of human-induced climate change. The unprecedented rate at which the earth is warming is having devastating impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem health, and human health. I discovered my interest in hydrogeology and soil science, specifically regarding contaminant transport and human health. Industrialization and the burning of fossil fuels can have serious impacts on groundwater and soil quality, especially in urban areas.
Annie Roux
Annie is a resident of Plainville and is attending the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse as a senior this coming academic year, with a major in Environmental Resources Engineering. From Annie’s application: I have a wide set of interests, such as drinking water, wastewater, soil, or environmental and human health and safety, but I know my degree is preparing me for all of them. I plan on taking my Fundamentals of Engineering exam at the end of the calendar year and obtain my Professional Engineer license down the road. I would also like to obtain the Professional Hydrologist and Licensed Environmental Professional licensure further in my career.
The EPOC Scholarship Fund is financed through the support of EPOC programs, proceeds from golf tournaments, and direct contributions from individuals and companies. EPOC is a non-profit organization, and as such, contributions to the Scholarship Fund are tax deductible for most firms. Unlike many other organizations, 100% of your contributions go in the EPOC Scholarship Fund. A committee of volunteers who support its goals and ideals manages the fund. For further information, please vist our Scholarship webpage.
