News & Recipients
±«Óătv Student Named 2023 Hollings Scholar
Another ±«Óătv sophomore, Audrey Brandt, was selected this year for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship Program. Audrey is a marine biology major with a minor in anthropology at the ±«Óătv St. Petersburg campus and is a member of the Judy Genshaft Honors College.
The Hollings Scholarship Program includes an academic scholarship and a 10-week, full-time paid summer internship at a NOAA facility. During their internship experience, which will take place in summer 2024, Audrey will also complete research under a NOAA mentor and be provided funding to present at national conferences.
Audrey grew up in Tampa, observing the natural environment from a young age. They were drawn to the marine biology program at ±«Óătv, specifically at the St. Petersburg campus, and credit coursework at ±«Óătv for introducing them to the importance of community engagement and education in the sciences, which are pillars of NOAA’s mission and work. Courses like “Cultural Anthropology” and “National Parks: Ecotourism vs Sacred Space” emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge and history of place. To engage in science education, Audrey participated in the ±«Óătv College of Marine Science Education Outreach program in summer 2022. They worked with young students from across the country, teaching them about climate impacts and local ecosystems. Audrey hopes to continue this engagement, as well as work with Dr. Teresa Greely’s Oceanography Camp for Girls this summer. Audrey has also worked as a research assistant with a graduate student studying nitrogen pollution levels in Southern Leopard Frogs. After graduating from ±«Óătv, Audrey hopes to attend graduate school and do conservation research while also focusing on education.
Judy Genshaft Honors College Endowed Dean Dr. Charles Adams said, “Winning a Hollings Scholarship is a tremendous achievement that distinguishes Audrey as one of the most promising environmental researchers of their generation. I am grateful to the faculty and advisors in both the Office National Scholars and the Judy Genshaft Honors College office on the St. Petersburg campus for helping talented students like Audrey pursue these life-changing opportunities.”
Read more about the Hollings Scholarship here, or email our advisors to schedule an appointment to discuss the application process.