(AGENPARL) – gio 21 aprile 2022 Yale School of the Environment awards $5K scholarships to students who serve []
[AmeriCorps]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 21, 2022
AmeriCorps Press Office
pressoffice[@]cns.gov
Yale School of the Environment awards $5K scholarships to students who serve
The new scholarship program will provide up to five AmeriCorps alumni admitted to the university in each incoming class with $5,000 scholarships, recognizing academic potential and leadership in environmental and forestry-related fields. Eligible programs include master’s degrees in environmental management, forestry, forest science and environmental science. All awardees also will complete internships in underserved communities during their studies, allowing them to use and expand the skills they learned as national service members.
“Yale’s commitment to AmeriCorps alumni actively removes barriers to service,” said AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith. “Environmental conservation isn’t just about tackling climate change; it’s about paving a more just and equitable future for communities across the nation. I look forward to seeing how AmeriCorps members use their service experience in educational institutions and beyond.”
“We are delighted to partner with AmeriCorps, an organization committed to tackling environmental challenges at the community level,” said Indy Burke, dean of the School of the Environment. “Providing financial support for students with experience in these efforts will both further engage these young environmental leaders and bring unique and diverse perspectives that enrich our school community.”
The scholarship initiative and Yale’s membership in the Schools of National Service program was spearheaded by AmeriCorps alumnus and class of 2023 master’s of forestry science candidate, Cameron McKenzie. McKenzie served as an AmeriCorps member and watershed ambassador in New Jersey where he led community-based restoration projects and conducted training on watershed stewardship for local community members.
“The people who go through AmeriCorps have done incredible work,” said McKenzie. “And this program will provide added incentive for them to take this path into graduate school.”
Yale joins the more than 250 higher education institutions nationwide who participate in AmeriCorps’ Segal AmeriCorps Education Award matching program, an initiative that awards those who complete their term of service funds to be used to pay educational expenses at eligible post-secondary institutions, including many technical schools and G.I. Bill-approved programs, or to repay qualified student loans. The education award is equal to the maximum amount of the U.S. Department of Education Pell Grant, currently approximately $6,400. Since 1994, AmeriCorps alumni have earned more than $4 billion in education awards, using $1 billion to repay student debt.
Many higher education institutions that participate in the program report an increase their applicant pool by gaining access to AmeriCorps alumni – a network nearly 1.2 million strong – who research shows are leaders with the determination and skills to succeed with demonstrated commitment to service and civic engagement.
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[AmeriCorps]
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