SEDV 2019 Award Recipients

Award Recipient: Theresa Chicote (Roger and Mona Creasey Memorial Graduate Scholarship)

The Roger and Mona Creasey Memorial Graduate Scholarship is given to a Sustainable Energy Development (SEDV) graduate student who is engaged in the investigation of the cumulative effects of energy development activities on a species or ecosystem. The award has been provided through donations from the family, friends and colleagues in memory of Roger Creasey. Roger was a pioneer in developing the practice of cumulative effects assessment (CEA) as an integral part of environmental impact assessment (EIA). Roger worked tirelessly for the advancement of the professional practice of cumulative effects assessment and management in Alberta.

The 2019 Creasey Memorial Graduate Scholarship recipient is Miss. Theresa Chicote. During her undergraduate studies, Theresa developed an interest in environmental geography in which she was exposed to environmental assessments. This experience led her to pursue the SEDV program and conduct her research study which identified the threats affecting the Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW). Theresa’s research of the SRKW included the assessment of marine vessels that impose a cumulative noise effect and suggested mitigation methods to manage traffic and minimize adverse effects on the SRKW. By corresponding with industry professionals, reviewing published literature and analyzing case studies, Theresa concluded that no matter how small an increase of marine traffic in the SRKW critical habitat, it is significant considering the vulnerable state of the SRKW population. Congratulations Theresa!

Award Recipient: Nelson Debogorski (Fennell Sustainability Graduate Scholarship)

Heather and Jon Fennell, University of Calgary alumni, established the Fennell Sustainability Graduate Scholarship to honour their commitment to graduate education in sustainability. The scholarship supports students pursuing scientific, engineering and finance studies to understand and monetize risks and opportunities associated with future energy development and its implications for water and food systems. The goal is to assist dedicated students wanting to develop a holistic knowledge base to help solve the sustainability challenges facing the planet.

The 2019 Fennell Sustainability Graduate Scholarship recipient is Mr. Nelson Debogorski. With roots in Yellowknife, NWT, Nelson has a unique perspective of climate change, due to its more pronounced effects in the North. This perspective drives Nelson’s sustainability passion, developing innovative solutions to help solve the climate crisis. Nelson has an interest in entrepreneurship and joined the SEDV program to network with other innovative individuals and learn more about a forward thinking field of study Congratulations Nelson!