Lacey Brown

Environmental stewardship has always been a passion of mine, but only after completing my Bachelor’s of Communication in 2018 did I start to consider how that passion could be applied to my career. I wanted to find a way to combine my social science training and love for the arts with climate change awareness and response. This is when I came across the Climate Change and Society program. I was immediately drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the program and the ability to shape it to my interests and goals. Currently I live in Wilmington, North Carolina and have joined the Leadership Team of Clean Cape Fear to help stop the release of dangerous PFAS into the Cape Fear River. I’m already utilizing the skills I learned in the Climate Adaptation Certificate Program and now the full CCS Masters program. Ultimately, I plan to focus my studies on a combination of environmental policy and climate change communication.

Samantha Collins
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Zoology, I spent several years working for contract positions in a broad variety of settings: cell biology academic labs, industrial agricultural research, and small nature-based pest and environmental control, among others. All of these were valuable experiences, but my lifelong interest in conservation and the wild places of the world, as well as the growing urgency of the greatest challenge of our lifetimes – climate change – convinced me that I needed to refocus the trajectory of my career. I am thrilled to be a member of the Climate Change & Society Program and therefore a proactive participant in building a thriving, sustainable future. This is a challenge that impacts every field, but it is also an opportunity to re-examine our relationships with our institutions and our environment, and one I am excited to support with lifelong curiosity and action.

Alyssa Crouson

I strongly believe in the Seussian insight that nothing will ever change unless someone cares
enough to do something about it. The cause that I feel most passionate about is environmental
conservation and justice, I want a profession created to protect and empower the earth and the
people on it. Sustainability and being a vessel for change is what gives me purpose. The Climate
Change and Society program made the most sense for me and my career plans. I have been
striving to fulfill my purpose of environmental stewardship, and by joining this program I am
able to expand my knowledge and learn valuable skills for future jobs in sustainable project
management. I completed my bachelors in English and political science with a minor in
environmental science at NC State. Since doing so, I have committed my time to learning all
that I can so that I can educate and prepare businesses and individuals on climate change and
all the pressing externalities.

Catherine Edbrooke
Catherine majored in Marine Sciences with a concentration in Biological Oceanography and minors in Spanish and Biology at NC State before graduating and joining the Climate Change & Society Master’s program. She is currently working as a teaching assistant for the BIO 181 Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity lab during her time as a graduate student. She wanted to join the Climate Change & Society program so that she could better understand the ways climate change interacts with the marine system and the effects of this interaction on marine organisms. After this program she hopes to continue her studies into the interactions between the ocean and climate change.

Kirsten Gard

I have had an interest in advocating for the natural world for as long as I can remember; I recently found a piece of art from early elementary school that stated I wanted to “end global warming” when I grew up. When I got to college at Southern Illinois University, I pursued this passion by majoring in Geography and Environmental Resources. I had concentrations in Environmental Sustainability as well as Climate and Water Resources, and a minor in Environmental Studies. After graduating, I moved from Illinois to North Carolina to work on a remediation project involving PFAS in the Cape Fear River and local groundwater supply. I always knew I wanted to continue my education, and I am thrilled to be a part of the Climate Change and Society program here at NC State. I am looking forward to deepening my understanding on this complex and multifaceted topic, and am hoping to use the knowledge I obtain from this program to contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Kiele Goins

I graduated from UNC-Asheville with a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Studies, where I
learned the connections between earth’s systems and developed a love of geologic science. I
wanted a field where science and human interests intersected. Geology fascinated me because,
although all environmental science overlaps with human society, geology intersects human
interests in often strange unexpected ways. My undergraduate studies led me to want to
understand more about the many complex systems that allow the planet to function. I pursued
a Master’s degree at University of South Carolina where I studied how carbon is stored within
deep soil. The overlap between soil and people resulted in an interest in climate change. I want
to further soil’s role in people’s lives, particularly as a part of a climate change solution.
However, my understanding of climate science needed to be more in depth, which is why I am pursuing a second masters at NCSU. I look forward to all the opportunities to marry all my interests and launch a career with both science and society at the forefront.

Hayden Hill

I have always been someone who is passionate about helping people and the environment. As an undergraduate at Appalachian State University, I quickly found that I could turn these passions into a career in environmental sciences. After graduating with a BS in Sustainable Development, with concentrations in environmental studies and human ecology, I knew that my time in school wasn’t over yet. An introductory course in climate change science that I was a part of at App sparked my interest in continuing to study at NC State, and here I am! I am so excited about this chapter of my life, and I am looking forward to utilizing my newfound knowledge and skills in climate change communications to better our planet.

Addie Jackson

I have spent my voice focusing on democratizing access to science and aiding in the facilitation of climate action and aiding in the generalized education on science. Whether it was summers I spent at camp providing experiential learning opportunities to children to reduce fear and develop a desire to learn about the environment or the hands on climate activism I’ve done with the Fridays for Future campaign, utilizing the ways in which talking about and promoting the needs of climate action have been such a joy for me. This led to my academic pursuits of Environmental Studies and Strategic Communications at High Point University for my undergraduate degree as well as my admittance into this program. I hope to build my understanding of communicating the issues of climate change and accomplish research as to what role the narratives we promote and tell ourselves about climate change have to play in solving the climate crisis.

Claire Jackson

I have always had a passion for the environment and protecting the Earth. As I made my way through undergrad and the beginning of my career, I realized how complicated and ever evolving the idea of combating climate change is. In college, I majored in Business during my time at Franklin and Marshall College, but I enjoyed taking classes that centered around the natural world and the dynamic relationship society shares with the environment. I was interested in the innovative solutions that businesses and individuals were creating to reduce our footprint. I wanted to take a more serious step in one of the most important issues that our society is facing. I joined this program to learn how to better communicate, design and actively combat climate change and I’m so excited for this next chapter. 

Lily Johnson

I have always had a deep respect for the ocean and the environment. I grew up spending most summers and holidays with my family at our cottage on a tiny island in the Outer Banks of NC, which instilled in me a respect and passion for the ocean and all it provides from an early age. My grandparents, who lived on the island, taught me how important it is to utilize and preserve the natural resources that the earth and the ocean provide for us. I have always carried that knowledge with me and made every effort to pass it on, especially in my academic career. I graduated in May 2022 with my Bachelor’s in English and Political Science and a certificate in Business and Technical Communication from East Carolina University. During my undergraduate and beginning graduate career, I took part in a field study in the Outer Banks of NC gauging local education and opinions on climate change and I also studied abroad on the northern coast of Ireland studying sustainable farming and renewable energy sources. These experiences helped me to better understand the climate, social, and political issues we are facing today. After graduating, I took some time off from studying and moved up to Martha’s Vineyard to work as a bus driver for the Vineyard Transit Authority. Living on an island so close to the ocean and surrounded by such immense scenery has really solidified how much I want to do everything I can to protect our climate and natural resources, and I know that studying in the CCS program is a step in the right direction. I am excited to deepen my knowledge and understanding of our climate and natural resources so that I am better prepared to advocate for it in the future.

Vanadeep Kaluvagunta

As an international student coming to NC State from a land hailed to be the ‘cradle of civilizations’ – India (Bhaarat), I take immense pride and deem it my privilege to be an integral part of the Department of Marine, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences and the Climate Change & Society (CCS) Masters program. I was enrolled as a Doctoral student in MEAS and now, it’s a great opportunity to be on-board for pursuing my masters in CCS. I already have a double masters (one in Physics FROM India and the other in Meteorology from Spain) along with a PhD in Physics back in India. I am now pursuing my second PhD and my third masters from NCSU. I also worked as a scientific assistant to a chief scientist in National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL), which is under the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Being a passionate teacher, I had an opportunity to teach Astrophysics, Ecology & Environmental Science to undergraduates along with Physics & Electronics to graduate students in 3 different universities of India. I also served on the Board of Studies (BOS) committee at university level for Meteorology and Hydrology engaged in framing & approving the syllabi. At NCSU, I am also the President of the Indian Student Association of NCSU- MAITRI, which is the largest international student organization on campus with almost 2000 members. In addition to this , I serve as the GSA representative to the All-council from MEAS department. Besides, I take pride in being a Small Pack Leader , fulfilling my responsibilities as an international services volunteer involved in cross-cultural interactions with students. Recently, I have also been appointed as the NCSU Student Senator for Graduate & Lifelong Education. Right from my kindergarten, I have been very fascinated and thrilled as I observed winds, cloud formation patterns, flow of water, lightning and the unparalleled scent of hot Earth’s surface during the first pre-monsoon showers. To my dismay, all these exquisite phenomena are fading out with passing years owing to the menace of climate change. Hence, I find it enriching and fulfilling to be part of a program that strives to investigate and mitigate all possible triggers of climate change involving highly interactive practical studies. Looking forward to embarking upon a wonderful learning voyage on all fronts through the CCS Masters Program.

Mark Massing

Dr. Massing received his BS in computer science at Florida Atlantic University and then earned an MS in Public Health from UNC-Chapel Hill, an MD from Duke University and PhD in epidemiology at UNC-CH. He joined the program to learn more about climate change and its implications for the health sector.

Uzma Miraj

I am from the Northern Areas of Pakistan. I pursued my Bachelor’s degree in Environmental
Sciences from Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi, Pakistan. My dedication to
environmental studies and my passion for the natural world began during my childhood.
Growing up, I observed various changes in the environment around me, such as glacier retreat,
fluctuations in crop production, soil erosion, and variations in river water levels. These
observations fueled my curiosity and desire to understand the complexities of climate and
associated environmental changes. Currently, I am enrolled in an incredible opportunity, a fully-
funded scholarship to pursue my MS in Climate Change and Society at North Carolina State
University. I am thrilled about this opportunity to study aspects of climate and environmental
changes at a renowned institution like North Carolina State University.

Emily Ogburn

I received my undergraduate degrees in Ecological Science and English from University of Kentucky and
my master’s in Ecology from State University of New York—Environmental Science and Forestry in
Syracuse, New York. I have spent my career conducting scientific research in the fields of wildlife ecology
and agricultural entomology. I joined the CCS program to learn more about climate change science and
communication because I believe climate change is the greatest scientific issue of our time. As we move
forward on climate change policy, it is crucial that social and environmental justice is an integral part of
the process. I am excited to learn more about climate change science, communications, and policy and
the important connections among all three.

Hunter Reed

My fascination with the natural world has been a quiet influence for the majority of my life while growing up in Charlotte, NC, so I chose to pursue an undergraduate degree in geosciences to better understand anthropogenic climate change. After receiving such a science-driven education, I was in search of a graduate program that provided more balance between the societal implications and mitigation avenues with the the most up-to-date climate science, and the Climate Change & Society program has met that need. As a military spouse, I’ve been fortunate to have traveled to several states and countries during my undergraduate studies that all exhibit the impacts of a changing climate. It is my hope to work as an intermediary between the scientific realm and the public to strike realistic solutions for the current climate crisis.

Alexandra Steele

Alexandra Steele has more than 20 years’ experience as an on-air meteorologist. She has worked both nationally and in local television markets forecasting the weather. She spent over ten years as an evening anchor on The Weather Channel as well as an on-air meteorologist at CNN. She also spent years in Atlanta, Georgia (WANF), in Washington, DC (WJLA) and in Hartford-New Haven (WTNH) markets. Alexandra is a member of the American Meteorological Society and has earned the Television Seal of Approval. She is also an Emmy-nominated meteorologist. Alexandra graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor of Arts and Science and has a Masters Degree in Journalism from Northwestern University. She completed her Meteorology Degree in Connecticut concurrent to working at WJLA-TV. Prior to her on-air television work, she worked in both London and New York City for ABC News. Alexandra is married and has a daughter and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Climatology.

Kenyon Taylor

North Carolina has a plethora of amazing natural elements such as our mountains and seas and everything in between! Growing up here, I didn’t realize just how special our natural surroundings truly are and how important they are to every other aspect of our lives. I recently graduated from the University of North Carolina at Asheville with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Management and Policy. By choosing that program, I was able to learn about the environment from its natural side and from the political and economic viewpoint. I am so excited to continue my education and join the Climate Change and Society program here at NC State University to better understand climatological features and the impact humans are having on them. I hope to leave this program with the knowledge to make a difference and protect our environment.

Sarah Thomas

As a Philadelphia native, I grew up seeing the effects of climate change well before I knew what climate change was. I was amazed by how a city as old as Philadelphia seemed like it was always undergoing construction to adjust for things like storm flooding or for urban sprawl. While working in the city as an ER nurse later on in life, I saw increasing trends of climate-related health issues such as heat stroke or trauma injuries related to severe storms. I hope by completing this degree I can widen my understanding of climate change science to become a better communicator, advocate, and educator. After completion of this degree I hope to further our understanding of the changing climate by completing research, possibly with a focus on atmospheric science.

Addie Thornton
I have always had a love and appreciation for the natural environment and the experiences, resources and beauty it provides. This passion led me to an education and career sustaining our natural resources for future generations to enjoy as I have. Starting with my BS in Natural Resource Policy and Administration at NCSU, to working within the NCSU Forestry Extension Department coordinating natural resource educational events and conferences and now, coordinating the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS). Through SERPPAS I bring together state and federal agencies to make resource use decisions that support military readiness, conservation of natural resources and sustainable working lands and communities in the Southeast. Climate change impacts threaten all of these sectors in varying ways, and I am excited to join this program to enable SERPPAS to mitigate and adapt to a changing climate for a more resilient Southeast Region. I look forward to this degree opening up opportunities for me to continue my career focusing on the most important issue of our time.

Meharwar Uppal

Shonni Wiggins
My fascination with climate change began in middle school while attending math and science camp at the School of Math Science in Durham, NC.  Also, living in eastern North Carolina I have experienced how hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding can be devastating.  I have seen how these weather events have worsened over the years and their impact on vulnerable communities in my area.  I have a B.S in Environmental Studies from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.  While attending NCAT my advisor encouraged me to learn more about the Climate Change and Society Program at NC State to further my interest in climate change.  I enrolled in the Climate Change and Society program because I want to learn more about the science behind the changes in our climate.  Upon receiving my degree, I would like to apply it to a career working with at-risk communities affected by climate change.

Collin Yates

I’m a graduate student in the Climate Change and Society program at N.C. State University, where I previously earned my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences from the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources. Passionate about bridging policy and data analysis, I apply my skills to projects at the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, focusing on water resources and climate change. My interest is deeply rooted in the integration of scientific knowledge with practical applications. Through the CCS program, I aim to deepen my understanding of climate change’s societal impact and collaborate with peers and professionals to drive effective and actionable solutions.