Diamondback terrapins, like this one pictured, are one of the animals being studied by three YSE students recently awarded scholarships for demonstrated leadership in the field of conservation.
The MK McCarthy-RW Worth Scholarship, established in 2015, provides $4,000 to each recipient.
Three Yale School of Environment students have been awarded the MK McCarthy-RW Worth Scholarship for Leadership in Conservation Science. By investing in conservation scientists, the Worth Scholarship showcases the importance of conservation to the overall efforts to address the pressing environmental challenges we face today.
Germar González ’24 MESc, Elizabeth Nowlin ’24 MESc, and Mizzy Almaazmi ’24 MESc were recognized for their leadership in the field of conservation biology and wildlife science.
“Asking interdisciplinary questions that address socio-ecological issues is essential for driving progressive shifts in the field of conservation,” González said. “I believe my current research on carnivore conservation and multiple-use landscapes in Mexico accomplishes just that, which is why it holds such significance for me. Winning this award humbly acknowledges my commitment to a conservation vision that promotes inclusive and equitable conservation practices.”
González is working in the Applied Wildlife Ecology (AWE) lab under the direction of Nyeema Harris, Knobloch Family Associate Professor of Wildlife and Land Conservation, studying carnivore diversity in a biosphere in Mexico.
"Well-deserving is an understatement here. Germar's thoughtfulness and dedication have made him an asset to my AWE Lab. He has been actively collaborating on research efforts in green spaces, from urban parks in Detroit to his thesis work in a biosphere reserve in Mexico. His demonstrated commitment to a rigorous, inclusive, and publicly engaging practice of science makes me hopeful for the field of conservation," Harris said.
The awardees are individuals who are among an exciting new generation of conservationists who are developing scientific knowledge for nature conservation.”
Nowlin is researching the effect of redlining on mammal diversity in New Haven, examining how social factors, such as historical structural inequities, impact the distribution of mammal species diversity.
“With New Haven as my study system, I aim to highlight areas in the city to focus future efforts on promoting an equitable distribution of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services,” she said.
Almaazmi is studying threats to diamondback terrapin populations in Connecticut, which nest in heavily human-populated areas.
“I am deeply invested in the conservation of threatened and endangered species. I aspire to become a wildlife conservation professional and make meaningful contributions to conservation science in both the U.S. and my home country, the United Arab Emirates,” Almaazmi said.
The MK McCarthy-RW Worth Scholarship, which provides $4,000 to each recipient, was established in 2015 by Margaret McCarthy, '82 and her husband, Robert Worth to benefit master's students who have completed a minimum of two semesters at YSE and have demonstrated leadership in the field of conservation biology and wildlife conservation.
“The awardees are individuals who are among an exciting new generation of conservationists who are developing scientific knowledge for nature conservation that, when applied, justly respects human dignity and welfare while ensuring that non-human species can fulfill their biological natures as part of healthy, functioning ecosystems and landscapes,” said Oswald Schmitz, YSE Oastler Professor of Population and Community Ecology, who was a member of the scholarship selection committee.
