Celebrating the Excellence of Water Institute Ambassador

Congratulations to Water Institute Ambassador Dr. Gabrielle Quadrado for her achievements as she nears graduation from the University of Florida! Dr. Quadrado recently defended her dissertation, “Exploring the Temporal Variability of Extreme Total Water Levels and Associated Drivers Across the United States Coastlines,” and was honored with two prestigious awards recognizing her academic excellence.

During the Department of Geography’s Evening of Excellence, Dr. Quadrado received the Ryan Poehling Fellowship, awarded to students who exemplify Ryan Poehling’s legacy of sustained academic excellence, departmental service, and leadership. She was also recognized with the Top Published Student Article in Earth Systems Sciences award for her impactful research contributions.

Dr. Quadrado’s doctoral research examined variations in the magnitude and frequency of extreme total water levels—highest water levels experienced during flooding events—by analyzing the combined effects of waves, tides, and storm surges. Her findings aim to inform coastal risk assessment and adaptation planning.

Following graduation, Dr. Quadrado will join Dr. Thomas Wahl at the University of Central Florida as a postdoctoral researcher, where she will continue advancing coastal science and resilience efforts.

“With my current and future research, I hope to continue advancing coastal science and contribute to existing efforts towards building coastal resilience in a changing climate worldwide.”
— Dr. Gabrielle Quadrado

As a Water Institute Ambassador for the past two years, Dr. Quadrado has fostered a strong graduate student community by enhancing participation in UF Water Institute programs and creating opportunities for networking and leadership development. Her efforts have strengthened engagement and collaboration among University of Florida graduate students.

“It has been a pleasure working with Gabi and witnessing her leadership, dedication, and passion for water science and the Water Institute community. We look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the future.”  
— UF Water Institute

April 9, 2025