Western Carolina University student wins EPA fellowship grant

Marissa Taylor, a student at  Western Carolina University, recently was named an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant recipient through its Greater Research Opportunities (GRO) fellowship program.

One of 34 winners from universities across the country, Taylor was selected from a pool of applicants studying environmental science or a related field, and will receive financial support to further her education and career goals.

“These students’ ambitious and innovative ideas will help create a more sustainable future,” Acting Assistant Administrator for the EPA's Office of Research and Development Lek Kadeli said. “EPA is investing in the next generation of environmental scientists and engineers whose research will help achieve our mission of protecting human health and the environment.”

The GRO fellowship program was created more than 30 years ago, and aims to give rising college juniors both financial support and learning experience to aid them in their future careers. Past fellows have gone on to become recognized leaders and educators in environmental and health fields.

Fellows are eligible to receive $20,700, including tuition support and a stipend, for an academic year, or $8,600 for a summer internship, potentially totaling $50,000 throughout the fellowship.