In addition to a $3,500 award, recipients receive membership in NJSWEP, providing valuable opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and networking within the environmental industry.

Oluwaseun’s selection reflects her dedication to environmental scholarship and her promise as an emerging leader in the field. Her work contributes to the broader mission of advancing sustainable solutions and fostering inclusive pathways into environmental careers.

The scholarship recipients will be formally recognized at the NJSWEP 18th Annual Gala in June 2026.

His presentation highlighted the major contributing threats to the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) crisis in the state, the growing challenges posed by these chemicals in our water systems, and out-of-the-box mitigative approaches. Odera’s talk left water professionals inspired and earned him recognition from the conference judging panel with the second-best presenter award, placing him among the top presenters at one of New Jersey’s premier water industry gatherings.

We are proud of this achievement and look forward to your continued contributions to the field.

The ERI scholarship is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate or graduate student whose academic focus aligns with the mission of ERI in areas such as civil and environmental engineering, GIS, land use planning, and related fields. Scholarship winner is chosen through a competitive screening process that considers recommendation letters, a written essay, and academic performance.

Using complex geophysical analysis, machine learning and environmental risk assessment models, Shahnul’s study focuses on assessing the ecological and human health concerns associated with the toxicity of environmental heavy metals. His efforts enhance the stability and health of the urban environment.

The Scholarship Committee, Principals and Partners of Environmental Resolutions, Inc., had the opportunity to learn about Shahnul’s research and career goals at the formal award ceremony held at the ERI offices in South Jersey in August.

The TLCNJ scholarship panel praised his impressive combination of academic excellence and extracurricular achievements following a thorough evaluation of his essay, resume, and interview performance. The panel expressed excitement about his potential contributions to the environmental field.

The Land Conservancy of New Jersey has awarded scholarships totaling over $400,000 since the program’s inception in 1985, supporting exceptional students pursuing careers in environmental fields and related disciplines. The scholarship program reflects the conservancy’s broader commitment to preserving, restoring, and caring for natural resources while inspiring communities to protect open space.

Odera’s recognition acknowledges ÌÇÐÄvlog’s continued excellence in environmental science education and research, particularly in addressing real-world challenges facing the nation.

The NJWEA, a venerable organization with over a century of unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s precious drinking water, environment, and public health, provided the ideal stage for Odera to showcase his work. As the nation grapples with increasingly complex water quality issues, Odera’s research is more vital than ever. His dedication and passion for finding solutions to these pressing problems have positioned him as a rising star in the field, making him a source of immense pride for all those who have supported his journey.

Under the guidance of Dr. Duke Ophori, Odera aims to progress PFAS research in the United States. This grant recognizes Odera as one of only four exceptional graduate students across the state whose innovative research ideas have the potential to significantly advance our understanding of critical drinking water issues facing New Jersey and beyond.

Founded in 1984 as one of the first regional chapters of SETAC North America, HDC-SETAC brings together environmental scientists to share research and educate on current issues through annual meetings and workshops. Odera’s innovative and compelling research outputs impressed the judges with its novel approach and potential impact on environmental science and toxicology, exemplifying the scientific excellence HDC-SETAC fosters.

This prestigious award recognizes Odera’s hard work, expertise, and dedication to advancing understanding of critical environmental challenges in the United States. His research provides valuable insights into PFAS contamination patterns and hotspots across New Jersey.

Requirements for Anchor QEA Scholarship

• An inclusive mindset and the belief that everyone’s unique perspective deserves to be heard
• A commitment to giving back to their community and the environment
• Full-time student status (current or soon-to-be) at a school in the United States
• A demonstrated financial need
• A passion for engineering, environmental sciences, planning and restoration, technology and innovation, or a related technical field

Qiufeng’s research interest is innovative water treatment and water reuse technologies for tackling water pollution challenges and enhancing water supply in response to climate change. Currently, she is working as a key member in a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) project with Egyptian experts to develop resilient water reuse systems to combat agricultural drought.