My name is Jewel Lester, and I am an incoming Master of Public Policy (MPP) student at the University of Maryland, College Park. I will be concentrating in environmental policy, and my vision is to craft and implement policies that promote climate resilience, environmental justice, and food sovereignty—especially in historically underserved Black and low-income communities. I’ve seen how transformative education can be. It has changed the trajectory of my own life, and I am committed to using my degree to help uplift others. Achieving a graduate degree is not just a personal milestone—it’s the foundation for the change I want to build in the world. Growing up, I witnessed both the beauty and brokenness within my community. As the daughter of Sierra Leonean immigrants, I was taught the value of hard work, faith, and service. But I was also made aware of the structural inequities that exist—especially when it comes to the environment and health outcomes in marginalized neighborhoods. From flooding and food insecurity to a lack of green spaces and public health challenges, I saw the deep impacts of environmental neglect. These lived experiences inspired me to pursue a path in public service where I could help address systemic disparities through environmental policy and community-centered action. As an undergraduate at the University of Maryland, I majored in Government and Politics and minored in Public Leadership. While the classroom provided me with foundational knowledge, it was my experiences outside the classroom that helped shape my purpose. During my time as a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member, I worked with a local nonprofit called the Resilience Authority of Charles County. Our mission was to develop community-based solutions to climate-related challenges. Through this role, I managed grants, supported public messaging campaigns, designed site plans for sustainability initiatives, and organized data to help streamline grant proposal processes. One of my proudest achievements during this time was leading the development of a food forest at New Hope Church of God. The food forest initiative was both a personal and spiritual project. Located on church grounds in Waldorf, Maryland, it serves the church’s food pantry by providing fresh, healthy produce to families facing food insecurity. By transforming unused land into a thriving ecosystem, we created a space that feeds bodies and nourishes souls. This project also reinforced my belief that environmental justice is about more than just preserving nature—it’s about ensuring people, especially those often left behind, have access to clean air, nutritious food, and green spaces that promote well-being. Leading this effort taught me the importance of collaboration, faith-rooted service, and long-term planning—all skills I hope to carry with me into policy work. In addition to my nonprofit work, I’ve actively volunteered for environmental projects across Maryland. I’ve participated in numerous tree planting events, contributing to over 100 trees planted in various communities. These projects aim to increase urban canopy coverage, combat heat island effects, and bring environmental education to local residents. Volunteering has shown me the power of collective action and the impact of seemingly small contributions. Each tree planted is a symbol of hope, resilience, and a future-oriented mindset that I strive to carry into my career. In 2023, I interned with FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination (ODIC), where I developed outreach plans for new disability-inclusive initiatives and supported the Director’s communications tracking. This work exposed me to how inclusive policy is developed and measured. It helped expand my understanding of how environmental planning intersects with public health and accessibility, and inspired me to adopt a more holistic approach to policy. My goal after completing my MPP is to become an environmental policy analyst focused on urban climate resilience. I want to design and advocate for policies that center community voices, reduce environmental health disparities, and build sustainable systems of food access and green infrastructure. Long term, I envision founding a nonprofit that supports community-driven environmental projects—particularly in neighborhoods historically excluded from environmental planning. Through this organization, I hope to build food forests, support policy literacy, and foster leadership among young people interested in sustainability and equity. I also plan to pursue research that highlights how historical disinvestment in Black communities contributes to climate vulnerability, public health risks, and environmental degradation. By combining data-driven policy research with storytelling from affected communities, I hope to create policy tools that are not only rigorous but also rooted in the lived experiences of those most impacted. Receiving the Pastor Thomas Rorie Jr. Furthering Education Scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach these goals. As someone from a low-income background, financing graduate school is a significant challenge. While I’ve worked hard to save and secure some funding, the full cost of attendance, housing, and living expenses is daunting. This scholarship would relieve financial stress and allow me to fully focus on my academic and community work. It would also give me the flexibility to take on unpaid research and internship opportunities that align with my mission—without worrying about how I’ll make ends meet. But beyond the financial support, this scholarship represents something even more meaningful: a legacy of faith, education, and impact. Pastor Rorie’s life and work reflect the same values I hold close—uplifting others through knowledge, walking in service to your community, and believing in the power of education to break cycles. To be chosen for this scholarship would be an honor and a reminder that my path is not just my own; it is part of something bigger. It would remind me that others believe in my potential and are invested in my success—not just for me, but for all the people I hope to serve. In every step of my journey—whether I was interning with FEMA’s ODIC office, leading climate resilience efforts at the Resilience Authority, or planting trees with local youth—my goal has always been the same: to use what I’ve been given to help build a better world. I see public policy as the bridge between community and change. It’s the place where stories become data, and data becomes justice. And with the support of this scholarship, I will continue walking that bridge with faith, determination, and the belief that even the smallest seeds—whether planted in soil or in policy—can grow into something powerful. Thank you for considering my application and for investing in the future of students like me. I am committed to honoring this opportunity with service, excellence, and a lifelong dedication to justice and transformation.

My name is Jewel Lester, and I am an incoming Master of Public Policy student at the University of Maryland, College Park with a concentration in environmental policy. As a first-generation college graduate, the daughter of West African immigrants, and a young Black woman from a working-class background, I know firsthand how transformative education can be—not just for the individual, but for entire communities. My career vision is deeply rooted in service, justice, and the desire to protect both people and the planet through public policy. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of working with a local nonprofit called the Resilience Authority of Charles County, Maryland. As a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member, I’ve supported environmental sustainability initiatives that aim to make underserved communities more climate resilient. From managing grants to co-developing branding and outreach materials, I’ve worked hands-on to help ensure that environmental justice is not just an idea but a lived reality. One of the most meaningful projects I’ve led is the design and creation of a food forest at New Hope Church of God, where I partnered with the church and its food pantry to grow fresh produce on-site for families facing food insecurity. That experience taught me how faith, community, and sustainability can come together to create tangible impact. In addition to my nonprofit work, I’ve volunteered for multiple community-based environmental initiatives including tree plantings across Maryland. To date, I’ve helped plant over 100 trees to support local biodiversity, reduce heat effects, and engage residents in green infrastructure practices. Whether I’m digging in the soil or drafting a grant proposal, my goal remains the same: to create long-term solutions that improve public health, expand access to fresh food, and build climate-resilient communities—especially in historically overlooked Black and Brown neighborhoods. My drive comes from seeing the gaps in our systems—the way some neighborhoods flood while others remain protected, how access to green space often aligns with zip code, and how environmental hazards disproportionately impact low-income communities. Through my graduate studies, I hope to gain the tools and policy expertise needed to bridge those gaps. I want to be a voice for environmental equity, advocating for policy solutions that reflect the lived experiences of those most impacted. Receiving the Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship would be an incredible honor. It would not only help ease the financial burden of graduate school, but also allow me to fully focus on my academic and community leadership goals. I see this scholarship as more than financial support—it’s a legacy of a woman who believed in the power of education, just like I do. With your support, I will continue to dedicate myself to meaningful work that reflects the same values Charlene Howard lived by: mentorship, purpose, service, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. I am committed to using my education as a tool for justice and transformation, and I hope to honor Ms. Howard’s legacy by helping create a more equitable, resilient world.

Pursuing a Master of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, College Park is more than an academic milestone for me—it’s a continuation of my deep commitment to justice, sustainability, and service. As a first-generation college graduate and a low-income student, I understand both the power and the cost of education. This scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school and allow me to fully invest my time and energy into developing the skills I need to become a changemaker in the field of environmental policy. I’ve always believed that policy is where passion meets impact. My interest in public policy comes from witnessing how systemic disinvestment has disproportionately affected Black and low-income communities—particularly when it comes to climate change, access to green spaces, and food security. I want to be part of the solution. Through my graduate studies, I hope to strengthen my policy analysis and research skills so I can contribute to legislation that is both effective and equitable. My ambition is not abstract; it’s grounded in the work I’ve already begun. Over the past year, I have led the creation of a food forest at New Hope Church of God in Waldorf, Maryland. This project, which grows fresh produce for the church’s food pantry, is not just about gardening—it’s about justice. It brings together sustainability, community resilience, and faith, while directly supporting those who need it most. I also support environmental initiatives across Maryland, from tree plantings to grant writing, always focused on making the green transition inclusive. These experiences have made it clear that local action and policy must go hand in hand. While grassroots work is powerful, I want to be in the rooms where decisions are made, ensuring that the needs of underserved communities are heard and addressed. That’s why I’m pursuing my MPP with a concentration in environmental policy. I want to craft and influence policies that dismantle environmental racism and make sustainability accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few. Receiving the OMC Graduate Scholarship would be a tremendous support in this journey. It would allow me to worry less about how I’m going to pay for my education and focus more on how I’m going to use it to uplift others. It would also give me the flexibility to participate in unpaid internships or research assistantships that deepen my learning and expand my impact. Beyond my academic and professional goals, I view this opportunity as a responsibility. I am committed to using my education not just for personal advancement, but for collective liberation. I want to serve as a bridge between policy and the people it affects, ensuring that community voices are central to environmental decision-making. With the help of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to becoming the kind of leader who doesn’t just understand the issues—but helps create real, lasting change.

My faith in God is the foundation of how I move through the world and lead others. It shapes not just what I do, but how and why I do it. One of the core principles that guides me is the belief that we are called to be stewards of the Earth. In Genesis 2:15, God places Adam in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it.” That verse speaks directly to me. I see the Earth not as a resource to be used up, but as a gift to be cared for and protected—especially for those most in need. This belief has led me to connect my love for God with my love for the environment and to lead through faith in efforts that bring both creation care and community care together. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve done this is through my work at New Hope Church of God in Waldorf, Maryland. Partnering with the church and its food pantry, I led the planning and development of a food forest on church grounds. This food forest wasn’t just a garden project—it was an act of service and a demonstration of God’s love. By growing fresh fruits and vegetables on-site, we’re able to provide healthy, locally grown produce directly to the pantry. This helps feed families in need while also teaching sustainable practices and reconnecting people with the land in a spiritual and empowering way. Bringing this vision to life required me to lean into my faith for strength and guidance. There were challenges—logistical barriers, moments of uncertainty, and times when it would’ve been easier to let someone else take the lead. But I knew that when God places a mission on your heart, He also equips you with the grace and courage to carry it through. I leaned on prayer, scripture, and my church community to keep moving forward, and I encouraged others involved in the project to do the same. The result was a shared sense of purpose rooted in service, love, and stewardship. In addition to New Hope, I’ve been active in broader creation care efforts at churches across Maryland, including helping organize educational sessions about environmental justice and faith. These efforts are about more than conservation—they are about obedience to God, caring for one another, and ensuring the most vulnerable among us have access to clean air, fresh food, and safe spaces. As I begin my Master of Public Policy program at the University of Maryland, I carry this same faith-driven leadership into my academic and career goals. I believe that environmental policy can—and should—reflect spiritual values like justice, compassion, and care for creation. I hope to continue leading projects that not only address environmental issues, but do so in a way that uplifts communities and honors God’s calling. Leading through faith doesn’t always mean preaching—it can mean planting seeds, both literal and spiritual, and trusting that God will grow them. That’s the leadership style my faith has given me, and I intend to carry it with me in every space I enter.

My name is Jewel Lester, and I am a proud first-generation African American graduate student from Bryans Road, Maryland. Growing up in a community where environmental and economic disparities were common, I learned early on how deeply environmental justice is tied to social justice. That understanding has shaped my academic path, my professional goals, and my commitment to serving others. I earned my B.A. in Government and Politics with a minor in Public Leadership from the University of Maryland, College Park, and I will be pursuing my Master of Public Policy with a concentration in Environmental Policy starting in Fall of 2025 at the same institution. I’ve always believed in the power of public service to create meaningful change—and I’ve made it my mission to combine policy, climate resilience, and community engagement in everything I do. My passion for environmental work began through grassroots volunteerism. Over the years, I’ve dedicated my time to several hands-on initiatives across the state of Maryland, including river trail cleanups, community garden installations, and native tree plantings. These experiences have shown me the power of physical, local action and how small, consistent efforts can add up to lasting change. One of the most impactful moments of my journey was during my year of volunteer service with the Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps through the Chesapeake Bay Trust. While serving at the Resilience Authority of Charles County, I led a community-based agroforestry initiative that directly addressed both food insecurity and environmental degradation. As part of this project, I volunteered to plant over 100 trees alongside local residents. The trees we planted were more than just carbon sinks—they were acts of hope, growth, and sustainability in an area often left out of larger environmental conversations. Working with my hands in the soil, shoulder to shoulder with community members, reinforced my belief that real impact starts at the local level. In addition to this, I’ve participated in multiple river and trail cleanup events throughout Maryland. Whether removing trash from natural spaces or planting native species to restore damaged habitats, these efforts have helped me understand how environmental health and community health are deeply intertwined. They’ve also made me a more grounded and empathetic leader—someone who leads by doing, not just planning. Professionally, I’ve continued this commitment through my work with FEMA as an Environmental Compliance Review Specialist. In this role, I assess disaster damages while ensuring projects adhere to environmental and historic preservation regulations. I’ve also served on the ground, helping residents in New Mexico file claims and navigate disaster relief processes. These moments—when I can connect with someone in crisis and help them find clarity—are the ones that remind me why I chose this path. Looking forward, I plan to use my policy education to develop and implement environmental legislation that is equitable, community-driven, and resilient. I want to advocate for federal and local programs that protect underserved communities from climate change, while also empowering them to lead solutions. My long-term goal is to create accessible models of urban agriculture, like the food forest I’m building in Waldorf, Maryland, and support climate adaptation strategies rooted in justice. Receiving the ADP Scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school and allow me to continue this work without compromise. It would free me to focus on research, service, and innovation that directly benefits communities like the one I come from. Through both policy and boots-on-the-ground action, I am committed to creating a better, greener future—and I’m excited to keep growing in that purpose.

My passion for environmental protection is rooted in personal experience and a deep desire to create a sustainable and equitable future. Growing up in Bryans Road, Maryland, I saw firsthand how environmental neglect disproportionately impacts low-income and minority communities. These early experiences shaped my understanding of environmental injustice and sparked my commitment to climate advocacy—especially for those who are often excluded from mainstream sustainability conversations. I began my academic journey at the University of Maryland, College Park, where I earned a B.A. in Government and Politics with a minor in Public Leadership. Today, I am pursuing my Master of Public Policy with a concentration in Environmental Policy. This education is equipping me with the tools to analyze and influence the policies that shape our environment. My coursework in environmental policy analysis, political research, and innovation has helped me understand the complexities of climate change and the critical role that effective, inclusive policy plays in addressing it. Beyond the classroom, I have been actively involved in community-based environmental work. As a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps member, I helped design and implement an agroforestry project in Charles County, Maryland. We planted over 100 trees and developed a grant library to support future environmental projects—initiatives aimed at restoring ecosystems, improving food security, and building community resilience. These experiences taught me that environmental protection isn’t just about protecting nature—it’s about protecting people and ensuring that every community has the resources to thrive. My work as an Environmental Compliance Review Specialist with FEMA further deepened my commitment to sustainability. In this role, I assess disaster damages while ensuring that projects meet environmental and historic preservation standards. This position has shown me how critical it is to integrate sustainability into every phase of recovery and development—especially in communities recovering from natural disasters exacerbated by climate change. When loved ones ask how to reduce their carbon footprint, I always emphasize the power of small, consistent actions. First, I recommend embracing energy efficiency: switching to LED lightbulbs, unplugging electronics when not in use, and being mindful of heating and cooling habits. Transportation choices also matter—walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transit can significantly cut emissions. Waste reduction is another key area: avoiding single-use plastics, composting food scraps, and recycling properly all make a difference. I also talk about conscious consumption—choosing local, seasonal, and plant-based foods whenever possible. Even small shifts in diet can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water usage. Lastly, I encourage water conservation: turning off taps while brushing teeth, fixing leaks quickly, and installing water-saving fixtures. These tips may seem simple, but when practiced collectively, they have a meaningful impact. Most importantly, I remind people that reducing their carbon footprint isn't about perfection—it's about progress. Climate change is a global issue, but individual and community-level choices can ripple outward to inspire systemic change. My passion for environmental protection has shaped my education, my career path, and my purpose. I plan to continue working at the intersection of policy, climate resilience, and environmental justice—ensuring that underrepresented communities have a voice in decisions that affect their futures. Through research, outreach, and policy development, I hope to build sustainable systems that support both people and the planet. Winning the Environmental Kindness Scholarship would allow me to continue this journey with even greater impact. With less financial burden, I could dedicate more energy toward my graduate research, community projects, and long-term goal of advancing equitable environmental policy at the local and federal levels. Thank you for considering my application.

Mental illness has had a profound impact on my life—both in the quiet struggles I’ve faced and the strength I’ve gained from surviving them. In high school, I was the “perfect student.” I graduated with a 4.4 GPA, ranked 12th in my class, and got into my dream school: the University of Maryland, College Park. I set my sights on the School of Engineering, confident I could conquer the toughest classes. But when I failed my first college calculus exam, that confidence shattered. No matter how hard I studied, I kept failing, and with each test, my self-worth and mental health spiraled further into darkness. Before college, I had already experienced depression and anxiety. I had even been hospitalized due to concerns about my mental health. I thought college would be a fresh start, but it only magnified what I hadn’t healed. I fell into a pattern: class, homework, then sleeping the rest of the day away. I stopped taking care of myself. I isolated. I felt like I was disappearing under the weight of my own expectations. Then the pandemic hit. My GPA dropped, and I could no longer apply to the engineering program. That failure pushed me into a deeper depressive state, but it also forced me to reconsider what I truly wanted. I switched majors to Government and Politics, unsure at first, but over time, I discovered a love for public service and policy. It felt genuine—like I’d finally found a purpose rooted in who I was, not who I thought I had to be. Even as I succeeded academically, my mental health still ebbed and flowed. After graduating in 2023, I took a job that quickly became toxic. The stress and depression became physical—fatigue, brain fog, numbness. Then, right before Thanksgiving, I had an emergency appendectomy. Lying in that hospital bed, I knew I had to change something. Growing up with a West African mother, mental illness wasn’t something we talked about. Therapy was taboo, and medication was “for crazy people.” I paid for therapy out of pocket in college and eventually had to stop because I couldn’t afford it. For years, I believed I had to suffer silently. That changed when I met my partner. He gently challenged the stigma I grew up with and helped me seek real support. I found a therapist, got on anti-anxiety medication, and—for the first time—I felt emotionally stable. I could function without dread. I could hope again. In late 2024, I applied to graduate school and was accepted back at UMD for a master’s in public policy. This time, I’m entering with a stronger foundation and a clearer mission. I want to help shape mental health and healthcare policy to ensure others don’t fall through the cracks the way I almost did. My journey has made me more compassionate, more grounded, and more driven to advocate for systems that support people’s full humanity. Mental illness shaped me—but it didn’t break me. It’s become a part of my purpose, and a reason I’ll never stop fighting for equity, access, and healing.

I am pursuing a career in public service because I believe it is the most meaningful way to address systemic inequalities and build more resilient, sustainable communities. As a first-generation African American college graduate, I have always felt a strong sense of responsibility to give back—especially to communities that have been historically underserved. My passion lies at the intersection of environmental justice, public policy, and community resilience, and I’ve shaped both my academic and professional journey around those values. I earned my B.A. in Government and Politics with a minor in Public Leadership from the University of Maryland, College Park. I am now pursuing my Master of Public Policy at UMD with a concentration in Environmental Policy. This path was inspired by my lived experiences growing up in Bryans Road, Maryland, where I witnessed how environmental challenges such as food insecurity and poor green infrastructure disproportionately affected communities like mine. I knew I wanted to play a role in changing that. My commitment to public service has already taken shape in many forms. As a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps member with the Resilience Authority of Charles County, I co-designed and helped implement an agroforestry project aimed at increasing food access and restoring environmental balance in a local community. We planted 100 trees, developed a grant library for future sustainability projects, and managed communication efforts to raise climate awareness across the county. Additionally, in my work as a FEMA Reservist, I’ve conducted environmental compliance reviews for disaster recovery projects and supported residents affected by wildfires and other emergencies. I’ve worked directly with families to file claims and get assistance, and I’ve contributed to the documentation process that ensures environmental and historic protections are maintained during recovery. These experiences have given me valuable insight into how federal policy plays out on the ground—and they’ve reinforced my commitment to community-centered solutions. One of the most impactful ways I plan to apply my skills is through the development of a food forest in Waldorf, Maryland. This initiative will provide free, fresh produce to families in need while educating local youth about agriculture, sustainability, and green careers. It is my hope that this project will serve as a model for community-led climate adaptation and food access across the region. In the long term, I plan to work in environmental policy at either the local or federal level, where I can continue shaping programs that prioritize equity and resilience. I want to ensure that Black and Brown communities are not only included in policy conversations, but are leading them—and that they have access to the tools, knowledge, and resources to thrive in the face of climate change. Public service is not just a career path for me—it is a calling. It’s how I plan to turn my education into action, and my values into lasting community impact. With continued support and resources, I know I can help build a future that is more just, sustainable, and resilient for all.

As a first-generation African American college graduate with a passion for public service and environmental sustainability, I am honored to apply for the Charles Cheesman’s Student Debt Reduction Scholarship. I earned my B.A. in Government and Politics with a Minor in Public Leadership from the University of Maryland in May 2023. I am now pursuing my Master of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, College Park, with a concentration in Environmental Policy. My educational journey has been driven by a desire to create equitable, resilient communities, especially those vulnerable to climate change and social inequality. Throughout my academic and professional career, I have committed myself to meaningful public service. As a fellow in the University of Maryland’s selective Federal Fellows Program, I explored Energy and Environmental Policy and interned at FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination. That experience exposed me to the intersection of climate resilience, emergency response, and equity—and inspired me to continue working at the local and federal levels to protect and empower underserved communities. Professionally, I’ve served as a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member at the Resilience Authority of Charles County. There, I co-led the development of a community agroforestry project to combat food insecurity and improve environmental conditions in Southern Maryland. I also helped manage grants, planted over 100 trees as part of a climate mitigation effort, and supported outreach campaigns to promote local climate resilience. In my current work as an Environmental Compliance Review Specialist and FEMA Reservist, I’ve conducted environmental and historic preservation reviews, helped coordinate disaster claims in New Mexico, and supported applicants throughout complex claims processes. These roles sharpened my technical skills and deepened my understanding of public policy implementation during moments of crisis. Beyond formal employment, I remain rooted in community engagement. As a Zero-Hunger Volunteer with Maryland PIRG, I co-created a campus pantry cookbook for over 40,000 students. At Go Green Thrift Store, I promoted sustainable consumption through content creation and donation coordination. Today, I am launching a food forest in Waldorf, Maryland, to offer free produce to families in need and provide local youth with hands-on experience in green infrastructure. Receiving the Charles Cheesman Student Debt Reduction Scholarship would reduce the financial burden of my student loans and allow me to invest more deeply in these efforts. With reduced debt, I can focus more fully on graduate research, pursue unpaid fellowships, and expand my food forest initiative to become a replicable model of urban agriculture. It would also make it possible for me to attend policy conferences and access resources critical to advancing as a future leader in environmental and climate justice. This scholarship is more than financial aid—it represents a vote of confidence in students like me who are working to turn education into transformation. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting the dreams of first-generation students pursuing impact-driven careers.

As a child, I was captivated by the cosmos and aspired to become an astronomer. The mysteries of the universe fascinated me, and I envisioned a future spent exploring distant stars and galaxies. This passion led me to excel in science and mathematics during my early education, nurturing a deep appreciation for the natural world. However, as I matured and became more aware of the pressing challenges facing our own planet, my focus shifted from the celestial to the terrestrial. Witnessing the environmental injustices affecting underserved communities, particularly those disproportionately impacted by climate change and pollution, ignited a passion within me to address these issues directly. I realized that while understanding the universe is profoundly important, there is an urgent need to protect and preserve our home planet and to advocate for those most vulnerable to environmental degradation. This realization steered me toward a career in environmental policy and community empowerment. I pursued a degree in Government and Politics at the University of Maryland, College Park, where I cultivated a comprehensive understanding of policy-making processes and their implications for environmental justice. My academic journey was complemented by hands-on experiences that solidified my commitment to this path. As a FEMA Environmental Compliance Review Specialist, I assist communities in recovering from disasters by conducting environmental and historic preservation reviews. Previously, I worked with FEMA’s Hermit Peak Calf Canyon Claims Office, aiding economically disadvantaged residents in New Mexico to file claims for wildfire damages, ensuring they received the necessary resources to rebuild. Currently, I support historically overlooked counties in Kentucky, helping them secure FEMA funding to recover and build resilience against future disasters. These roles have enhanced my ability to analyze policies, navigate federal funding mechanisms, and advocate for equitable disaster recovery solutions. Beyond my work in disaster recovery, I am deeply involved in environmental resilience initiatives. As a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member at the Resilience Authority of Charles County, I played a pivotal role in securing and managing grants supporting sustainability efforts. I designed site plans for an agroforestry project addressing food security challenges and led the planting of 100 trees to enhance local biodiversity and mitigate climate impacts. Additionally, I am spearheading the development of a food forest in Waldorf, Maryland, aimed at providing fresh, locally grown food to underserved communities while fostering climate resilience. While my childhood dream of becoming an astronomer has evolved, the core of that aspiration—to explore, understand, and contribute meaningfully—remains steadfast. Today, I channel that passion into safeguarding our environment and empowering communities through resilient and equitable policies. My journey reflects a dynamic adaptation of my early ambitions, grounded in a commitment to effecting tangible, positive change on our planet.

My name is Jewel Lester, and I am a proud first-generation college graduate and an incoming Master of Public Policy student at the University of Maryland, College Park. I earned my bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the same university, and I am now continuing my education with a focus on environmental policy. As the daughter of a West African immigrant, I’ve seen the strength and determination it takes for Black women to navigate systems not designed for us, and I carry that legacy with me in every room I enter. As a FEMA Environmental Compliance Review Specialist, I help communities recover from disasters by conducting environmental and historic preservation reviews. Previously, I worked with FEMA’s Hermit Peak Calf Canyon Claims Office, where I assisted New Mexico residents from economically disadvantaged communities in filing claims for wildfire damage, ensuring they accessed the resources they needed to rebuild. Currently, I support counties in Kentucky that have long been overlooked in federal recovery efforts, helping them navigate FEMA programs to recover and prepare for future disasters. These experiences have deepened my understanding of federal systems, sharpened my policy analysis skills, and strengthened my commitment to equitable disaster recovery. Beyond my federal work, I am deeply involved in environmental resilience initiatives in my own community. As a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member at the Resilience Authority of Charles County, I’ve helped secure and manage grant funding for sustainability projects, designed site plans for agroforestry installations, and led the planting of over 100 trees to enhance biodiversity and reduce heat impacts. One of my proudest efforts is leading the development of a food forest in Waldorf, Maryland (my hometown). This initiative directly addresses food insecurity by providing fresh, locally grown produce to underserved families, while also educating youth and fostering environmental stewardship. Through my professional and community work, I’ve learned how policy can be used as a powerful tool to redistribute resources, repair harm, and uplift those who have been historically marginalized. I am committed to creating systems that serve, not silence, Black and brown communities, and I am actively building a career that reflects that purpose. Receiving the Michele L. Durant Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of graduate school, but it would also affirm my belief that Black women belong in public policy, emergency management, environmental science, and every other space where decisions are made. Like Ms. Durant, I believe in the value of lifelong learning and service. I intend to carry that belief forward by becoming a leader who designs solutions with the community, not for it, ensuring that equity is not just a value, but a practice.

I was always a perfect student in high school. I had a 4.4 GPA and graduated 12th out of 250 in my class. When I got accepted into my dream college—University of Maryland, College Park—I made it my mission to get into the School of Engineering and pass all the cliche weed-out classes with flying colors. That’s how it had always been for me: set a goal, work hard, and achieve it. But freshman year humbled me in a way I never expected. I had a solid support system—good friends who were also pursuing engineering—so we studied together, stayed up late preparing for exams, and encouraged one another. I went into my first college calculus exam feeling confident. But when I got my score back and saw I’d earned a 32 out of 100, it triggered one of the hardest ego deaths a perfectionist high-achiever like me could experience. No matter how hard I tried, I kept failing calculus and chemistry exams. With each failed test, my self-worth and mental health slipped deeper and deeper into a dark place. Even before college, I had struggled with depression and anxiety, landing in the hospital more than once due to concerns about self-harm. But I truly believed college would be a fresh start—not just academically, but emotionally. Unfortunately, I was wrong. My days became a cycle: go to class, do homework, and sleep the rest away, hoping I could escape the heavy fog of my depression. I’d go days without showering. Friends were a temporary distraction, but the constant disappointment in my academic performance made me feel like I was drowning with no lifeline. Then COVID hit. The second half of my freshman year and all of sophomore year went virtual. Because I got C’s in two of the required intro courses, I was no longer eligible to apply to the School of Engineering. That reality—paired with the isolation of lockdown—plunged me even deeper into despair. I felt like I had failed not just myself, but the version of me that everyone believed in. But that failure forced me to reimagine my future. I pivoted to Government and Politics, unsure at first, but by junior year, I realized I’d stumbled onto a passion for policy and public service that felt genuine and purposeful. Although I found a major that resonated with me, my mental health journey continued to ebb and flow. I graduated in 2023, proud but exhausted. With the job market as competitive as it was, I accepted a position I quickly came to hate. The stress and depression from that job began affecting me physically. I was constantly tired, anxious, and emotionally numb. Just before Thanksgiving, I had to get an emergency appendectomy. Lying in that hospital bed, I knew something needed to change—but I still didn’t know what. Growing up with a mom who immigrated from West Africa, conversations around mental health were taboo. Antidepressants were for “crazy people,” and therapy was out of the question. Because of that stigma, I kept my struggles a secret. I didn’t see my first therapist until senior year of college, and even then, I paid out of pocket to keep it hidden from my parents. But I eventually had to stop because I couldn’t afford it. For so long, I believed I had to suffer silently. It wasn’t until I met my current partner that my mindset started to shift. He gently challenged the way I saw mental health and encouraged me to stop merely surviving and start actually living. With his support, I found a therapist through my insurance and met with a psychiatrist who prescribed me anti-anxiety medication. For the first time, my mental health felt manageable. I could get out of bed without dread, feel my emotions without being consumed by them, and begin to look at life with more clarity and hope. In late 2024, I applied to graduate school. I was accepted back at my alma mater to pursue a Master’s in Public Policy, and this time, I’m entering with a clearer head and a stronger foundation. This journey—though rocky—has made me so much more empathetic, grounded, and self-aware. I no longer see mental health struggles as a weakness, but as something that has added depth to my character and perspective. It has shaped how I view the world and how I want to engage with it. My own experience with mental illness drives my desire to advocate for inclusive, equitable public policy—especially when it comes to healthcare access and community wellness. I want to help build systems that support people who feel like they’re falling through the cracks, because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to feel like you’re trying your best and still failing. I know the shame of not meeting expectations and the courage it takes to ask for help. And I also know that with the right support, healing is possible. Mental health has shaped my goals by making me more intentional about the impact I want to have. It’s shaped my relationships by teaching me to value honesty, vulnerability, and mutual care. And it’s shaped my understanding of the world by reminding me that people are often fighting battles we can’t see. My story is still unfolding, but I carry it proudly—not as a scar, but as a badge of resilience and a reason to keep moving forward.

Growing up, I often heard my father tell me, “Don’t play in the water.” Weekly visits to the Potomac River were a cherished family ritual after moving to Southern Maryland, but I learned early on that swimming in the river was unsafe due to pollution. This realization struck me deeply, as the river symbolized both nature’s beauty and its vulnerability. For past generations, the river was a source of clean water and recreation, but its degradation took that opportunity away from new generations, including mine. This moment sparked my passion for environmental preservation and inspired me to pursue a career in environmental policy and sustainability. My motivation stems from both my personal experiences and my family’s heritage. My mother and grandmother, immigrants from Sierra Leone, depended on farms and rivers for food and water, understanding that environmental health was essential for their survival and their community’s well-being. After moving to Southern Maryland, my grandparents continued to care for their home garden, knowing that nurturing the land was directly tied to nurturing their health and community. This legacy of sustainability has deeply shaped my values and inspired me to reduce my carbon footprint, live sustainably, and work toward creating a healthier planet for all. I have turned these motivations into action by committing to sustainability in both my personal and professional life. I reduce single-use plastics, use a Brita to refill my reusable water bottle, and strive for a plant-centered diet to limit the greenhouse gas emissions caused by factory farming. However, I know that sustainability is not just about individual efforts—it’s about engaging communities. That’s why I work for the Resilience Authority of Charles County (RAYCC), a nonprofit addressing climate change impacts in my local community. One of my most rewarding projects has been creating a food forest at New Hope Outreach Services in Waldorf, MD, which provides fresh produce to residents in need. This initiative combines long-lasting tree planting with sustainable gardening, demonstrating how environmental action can meet community needs. Leading this project has been a profound experience, and I hope it inspires others to adopt sustainable practices in their own lives. I believe that environmental policy has the power to create meaningful change by addressing the root causes of climate and sustainability challenges. My ultimate goal is to become a leader in environmental policy, crafting solutions that improve community resilience, protect natural resources, and promote equity. I hope to bridge the gap between local action and global impact, ensuring that all communities—especially those most vulnerable—can thrive in a sustainable future. This scholarship will empower me to further my education and expand my ability to effect change. By deepening my knowledge and refining my skills, I can continue my journey of protecting the environment and inspiring others to join me in creating a better world. With this support, I aim to turn my passion into tangible progress, making a lasting difference for future generations.