Cheryl Johnson-Watts Memorial Scholarship

As a lifelong competitive swimmer and swim instructor. I have spent countless hours in the water. Those hours gave me time to think, and over time I became more aware of how connected I am to the environment around me. Living at the confluence of three rivers and witnessing two “100-year floods” in just 18 years has shaped both my perspective and my purpose. These experiences pushed me to think beyond my immediate surroundings and toward a broader understanding of environmental change. They are the reason I plan to major in marine biology and use my career to create meaningful impact. Through my learning, I have come to understand that ocean health is not just an environmental issue, but a human one. Communities most affected by environmental decline are often those that rely heavily on natural resources. In many parts of the world, entire economies and food systems depend on healthy oceans for fishing, transportation, and tourism. As climate change accelerates rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and declining fish populations, these communities face serious consequences despite contributing the least to the problem. For them, the ocean is not just a resource but the foundation of daily life. Its decline threatens livelihoods, food security, and cultural stability. Recognizing this has shaped how I define impact. My goal as a future marine biologist is to conduct research that deepens our understanding of environmental changes while also developing solutions that are practical and equitable. I want to study how ecosystems respond to climate stress and identify ways to protect both marine life and the people who depend on it. However, research alone is not enough. I also want to educate others by translating complex scientific ideas into information that communities can use. Whether through outreach, teaching, or public engagement, I hope to make science accessible so people can better understand the challenges they face and take informed action. Attending Hampton University would strengthen this mission by placing me in a community rooted in resilience, shared purpose, and service. It would give me the opportunity to learn alongside others who are equally committed to making a difference while staying connected to the communities we aim to serve. My journey as both a swimmer and an instructor has shown me that impact often starts small. Teaching someone to swim is about more than a skill; it is about safety, confidence, and opportunity. In the same way, my career will focus on creating knowledge and sharing it in ways that empower others. By combining research with education, I hope to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for my community and beyond.