2010 Scholarship Awards

The EPOC Environmental Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 to assist Connecticut residents 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 DEP, 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 Connecticut students applying for a scholarship this year. At a recent meeting of the EPOC Scholarship Fund Committee, this year’s scholarship winners were voted on and approved.

Molly Patterson

Molly is a resident of Old Saybrook and a junior at St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY.  Molly is majoring in Environmental Studies and Geology and works during the summers as an Admissions Ambassador, and this fall as a Community Mentor.  Molly’s Geology professor states, “Molly is a pleasant, very well organized individual who is a hard worker; one of the few that I would label as an ‘ideal’ student from the instructor’s standpoint. She listens well, is able to digest instructions quickly and can work independently.”  Molly noted in her essay application, “I like the combination of geology, whether it’s what’s under the surface, or taking soil samples; and the aspects of environmentalism, conservation and clean up.  This scholarship is important to me because it will allow me to continue to explore my love of geology and the environment.”

Renee Faith Coma

Renee is a resident of Southbury and attending Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury. Renee is majoring in Environmental Science and Biology and is enthusiastically pursuing a career in the environmental profession in Connecticut. Renee noted that “I look forward to giving 110 percent of my effort and dedication to any task I’m assigned. I am passionate about science an about protecting our beautiful an unique planet.” One of her instructors and advisor agrees, noting that “She is highly motivated and has an admirable work ethic.”

Helen Elizabeth Spera

Helen is a resident of Marlborough and is in her fourth semester of graduate studies at the University of Connecticut in Storrs.  Helen states in her application essay,  “Most of my research has concentrated on determining and predicting the sustainability of water withdrawal from a bedrock aquifer used for irrigation at the University of Connecticut Agronomy Farm. I hope to expand my skills during my career by conducting environmental assessments of contaminants in aquifers.”  One of Helen’s professors at UConn states,  “An EPOC scholarship will help her complete her studies full-time through the fall semester.   She will be available for employment in the environmental field in Connecticut by January.  I would hire her in a minute.”

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. Anyone needing additional information about the Scholarship Fund or EPOC, please contact Seth Molofsky, Executive Director.