The goal of the Water Institute Ambassadors program is to build a graduate student community, provide a platform for greater student participation in Water Institute Programs, and provide networking and leadership opportunities for UF Water Institute graduate students.

Water Institute Ambassadors work with Water Institute staff to build the Water Institute graduate student community by:

Organizing Lunch by the Water, a monthly student-oriented seminar
Hosting guest speakers, career panels, water-oriented community events, social events, etc.
Promoting participation and engagement of students from on and off campus facilities.
Assisting with the Water Institute Symposium

2022- 2023 Ambassadors

GABRIELLE QUADRADO

Gaby is a PhD student in the Department of Geography interested in the interactions and feedbacks of climate change, urbanization and other human influences on coastal processes and coastal hazards. Gabi was the graduate representative of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee in her department from 2021-2022, and in this role organized student-oriented events. She has experience in science communication, public outreach, and academic event planning.

PAUL DONSKY

Paul is a PhD student in Forest Resources and Conservation, working as a Graduate Research Assistant at UF Ecohydrology Lab. He’s also a Board Member of the Ichetucknee Alliance. His research centers around Florida’s springs and their changing ecological conditions. He’s skilled in stakeholder engagement, public education, and event planning, showcasing his commitment to ecological awareness and preservation.

Award Details

The program awards two University of Florida graduate students $2,500 per academic year, as well as complimentary attendance at the Biennial Water Institute Symposium (in symposium years).

Eligibility Criteria

Must be a UF Masters or Ph.D. student (students from Research and Education Centers are encouraged to apply)
Faculty advisor must be a Water Institute Affiliate Faculty member

Application Materials

Resume
Letter of Interest describing your background, interest and/or experience in community building, career goals, and how the ambassador program will help you achieve your goals (1 page maximum)
Nomination Letter from Water Institute Affiliate Faculty Member