Three graduate students from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) were selected to receive Hauʻoli Mau Loa Foundation fellowships. These graduate assistantships have the overall goal to develop the next generation natural resource management leaders. Hawaiʻi.
The students were chosen for their strong academic records as undergraduates, connections to and integration within the local conservation community, and passion for the environment. ʻāinaan interest in the preservation and protection of shared and limited natural resources and their commitment to their future career and to preserving and maintaining their local environment. The fellowships last for two years. HawaiʻiHigh school graduates can increase the number qualified by receiving tuition exemption, a regular salary, and funds to support professional development. HawaiʻiBoth students and professionals can pursue careers in environmental resource management.
Lani Musselman
Musselman OceanographyGraduate student advised by SOESTFaculty Rosie AlegadoAnd Shimi Rii, is researching the base of the aqua food web in the Heʻeia National Estuarine Research Reserve. She studies microscopic phytoplankton to understand the environmental drivers that affect fish diversity and their health.
“Data generated from this project will be used to provide a deeper understanding of the biological and ecological impacts of incredible restoration efforts done to HeʻeiaFishpond by Paepae, a community organization Heʻeia,” said Musselman. “I am honored to receive this fellowship, and it will allow me to continue to follow my passions for place-based conservation and pursue a career in ocean conservation and protection of marine ecosystems across the Hawaiian Islands.”
Aston Ramos
Ramos is currently finishing his bachelor’s degree at UHHilo, will be Earth sciencesFall 2022, graduate student His work with Professor Henrietta DulaiThis will involve examining groundwater flows into coastal environments. He has done previous research that determined the amount and quality of groundwater being delivered to coastal areas using various tools that collected radon/radon isotopes, stable nitrogen isotopes, and the presence or absence of pharmaceuticals.
“Monitoring water resources in Hawaiʻi and the contaminants that leach from wastewater sources like septic systems and other anthropogenic sources provides important information to our communities,” said Ramos. “I have tremendous appreciation for the Hauʻoli Mau Loa Foundation for their support and for my mentors and peers who have cultivated my growth in research.”
Alyssa Veneri
Veneri, currently completing her degree from the University of San Diego will be joining. UHAs a graduate student Marine biology. Working with Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine BiologyAssistant research professor Elizabeth MadinVeneri will analyze the distribution of invasive and native algae species and determine how human runoff will affect their spatial distribution.
“Preserving native ecosystems through conservation research and restoration has always been the most important part of pursuing my degree,” said Veneri. “Attending the Marine Biology Graduate Program with the help of the HauʻoliThe Mau Loa Foundation Graduate Assistantship will allow you to combine your undergraduate degree in ocean and environmental sciences with your love and responsibility. Hawaiʻi ecosystems.”
This program is an example UH Mānoas goal of Enhancing Student Success (PDF), one of four goals identified in the 2015–25 Strategic Plan (PDF), updated in December 2020.
