Environmental studies (ES) major Sondra Winders ’14 was recently awarded the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings scholarship.

“Winning this scholarship is a tremendous honor. I am excited for this amazing opportunity to help me begin my career in environmental science,” said Winders.

Winders credits the College and ES department with preparing her to receive the Hollings scholarship. “Gettysburg College and the ES department have provided me with so many opportunities and fieldwork experiences,” she added.

Accepting the prestigious NOAA honor hasn’t slowed down her studies or fieldwork.

Winders will take Prof. John Commito's two-week, fieldwork intensive Coastal Ecology of Maine course at the end of May. She also has a summer internship lined up with Merrill Creek Reservoir in Washington, N.J. where she will create and carry out an independent research project. Additionally, she plans to study abroad in the fall in Madagascar, focusing on biodiversity and natural resource management.

Winders is the fourth ES student to win this national award. Past recipients include Brittany Jones ’12, Peter Murray ’11, and Alex Horning ’10.

The Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance (up to a maximum of $8,000 per year) for full-time study during the 9-month academic year; a 10-week, full-time internship position ($650/week) during the summer at a NOAA facility; and, if reappointed, academic assistance (up to a maximum of $8,000) for full-time study during a second 9-month academic year. The internship between the first and second years of the award provides the Scholars with "hands-on," practical educational training experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management, and education activities. Awards also include travel funds to attend a mandatory NOAA Scholarship Program orientation, conferences where students present a paper or poster, and a housing subsidy for scholars who do not reside at home during the summer internship.

Founded in 1832, Gettysburg College is a highly selective four-year residential college of liberal arts and sciences with a strong academic tradition. Alumni include Rhodes Scholars, a Nobel laureate, and other distinguished scholars. The college enrolls 2,600 undergraduate students and is located on a 200-acre campus adjacent to the Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania.

Contact: Nikki Rhoads, assistant director of communications, 717.337.6803