Doctoral Candidate Named as Recipient of the 2025 TLCNJ Environmental Scholarship
Odera Umeh, candidate for the PhD in Environmental Science and Management, was recently awarded the scholarship by the Land Conservancy of New Jersey
Posted in: Awards and Recognition, Environmental Science and Management PhD, Students
Environmental Science and Management PhD candidate, Odera Umeh, under the advisement of Dr. Duke Ophori, has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Land Conservancy of New Jersey (TLCNJ) scholarship, recognizing his exceptional academic achievements, commitment to protecting our water resources, aquatic species preservation, and environmental stewardship. The scholar was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants for his outstanding work in addressing critical environmental challenges in New Jersey and beyond. His research focuses on tackling per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) crises in New Jersey’s drinking water systems and aquatic species.
The TLCNJ scholarship panel praised his impressive combination of academic excellence and extracurricular achievements following a thorough evaluation of his essay, resume, and interview performance. The panel expressed excitement about his potential contributions to the environmental field.
The Land Conservancy of New Jersey has awarded scholarships totaling over $400,000 since the program’s inception in 1985, supporting exceptional students pursuing careers in environmental fields and related disciplines. The scholarship program reflects the conservancy’s broader commitment to preserving, restoring, and caring for natural resources while inspiring communities to protect open space.
Odera’s recognition acknowledges Montclair State University’s continued excellence in environmental science education and research, particularly in addressing real-world challenges facing the nation.