Coverdell Fellows Program

Chloe attributes her passion for environmentalism to growing up on the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries in the northern hemisphere. Watching this ecosystem change before her eyes created a drive and passion for learning as much as possible about sustainability and climate issues. While in undergrad, Chloe volunteered for International Student Volunteers in Victoria, Australia to aid Phillip Island Nature Park with habitat restoration, invasive species removal, and native plant propagation. This experience sparked an interest in plant propagation and the importance of natural habitat in regards to climate change, and ultimately lead Chloe to apply as an Agroforestry Specialist for Peace Corps Senegal. 

 Chloe arrived in Senegal in September of 2017 and completed her service and returned to America in November of 2019. Her work included reforesting decimated habitats, educating local community members on agroforestry best practices, orchard management, and tree propagation and grafting. Chloe received a Small Projects Assistance Grant to provide the women of her Senegalese community with four-hundred square meters of enclosed gardening space, providing them with the opportunity to grow nutritious foods for their families, increase personal income, and disseminate improved agricultural and agroforestry technologies. In addition to assisting the women in her village, Chloe also worked alongside a board of Peace Corps Volunteers to organize a week-long camp centered on empowering and educating girls aged 11-18. She taught them important topics such as health, anatomy, leadership, identity, and environmental awareness. Chloe also planned and lead a community-driven mangrove reforestation that resulted in the reforestation of 2.5 hectares of the protected Sine-Saloum Delta in coordination with local NGOs, community partners, and Peace Corps Volunteers. 

 Before completing her service, Chloe began exploring graduate programs to continue her education in sustainability and climate change. After months of research, she found that the PCGS was the best fit for her; what attracted her most to the program were the variety of sustainability concentrations as well as the option for specialized certifications. Since returning to America, Chloe has continued to garden and experiment with heirloom food varieties, propagate trees, and keep in touch with her Senegalese family and neighbors who she misses dearly. Upon graduation, Chloe hopes to continue working in food security and habitat restoration.