Addisu Serba, a senior at NC State University, and Dae Borg, a sophomore at Appalachian State University, are the first recipients of the Sheila B. Jones Environmental Education Scholarship, launched this year. Two local college students each receive a $1,000 scholarship to put towards their higher education and dream career.
Addisu Serba, who will complete his bachelor's in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management in December 2024, and Dae Borg, who is pursuing a degree in Sustainable Development with a concentration in Community, Regional and Global Development and minoring in Journalism, have both demonstrated exceptional commitment to becoming environmental educators and teaching about sustainable practices.
"Environmental education is so important," said Wake County Commissioner Donald Mial. "Addisu and Dae stood out for their skills, experience and passion for environmental education. This learning process is focused on creating a more sustainable future using the power of education and direct experience with the natural world. We are excited to support their journey and see the positive impact they will have in this field."
This year, six students applied for the scholarship. A committee consisting of three staff members from Wake Soil and Water Conservation District and two board members from the Friends of Wake SWCD considered career interests, coursework, extracurricular activities, financial need and other factors that might present barriers to pursuing a career in environmental education.
"We are incredibly proud of Addisu and Dae for choosing the profession of Environmental Education to help people of all ages address the pressing social and environmental issues facing society," said Sheila Jones, a longtime Wake Soil and Water Conservation District environmental educator, in whose honor the scholarship was created. "As environmental educators, they will connect people with nature, prepare young people for the future and motivate environmental stewards to take action in creating healthier and more civically engaged communities. We're excited that Addisu and Dae will bring fresh ideas and energy to this field while providing the education we need for the world we want."
The annual Sheila B. Jones Environmental Education Scholarship, launched by the Friends of the Wake Soil and Water Conservation District, is open to high school seniors in Wake County who have been accepted into college, as well as current college students residing in Wake County. Up to two outstanding individuals will receive a $1,000 scholarship to support their journey toward a career in environmental education. The next scholarship application will open in May 2025.
For more information or to donate to the Sheila B. Jones Environmental Education Scholarship fund so more deserving Wake County students can realize their career goals, contact Leah A Purvis at leah.purvis@wake.gov. Donations of any amount are most welcome and tax deductible.
