planet forward mystic aquarium fellowship

from the mightiest whale to the tiniest plankton, marine biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems that support food security, coastal protection, and climate stability. 

the planet forward mystic aquarium fellowship, which partners a scientist and a storyteller, challenges students to transform scientific marine research into visual and engaging journalism.

planet forward mystic aquarium fellowship

our fellows are george washington university students dre pedemonte, a graduating senior in english and journalism, and cecilia sécola, a rising junior pursuing a b.s. in environmental and sustainability sciences on a pre-veterinary track.

dre pedemonte and ceci sécola (photo courtesy dre pedemonte)

fellowship host, the mystic aquarium, is a non-profit organization in connecticut with a mission “to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research.” it’s also an active participant in the association of zoos & aquariums’ species survival plan.

the fellows will be in place through the end of july. their stories will capture the essential work of conservationists striving to protect and understand creatures at the forefront of climate change, pollution, and over-fishing.

check back here and on planet forward’s instagram for updates.

this program was made possible with support by michael lech, david freeman, and the berl brechner fund.

meet the fellows!

dre pedemonte

planet forward mystic aquarium fellow | george washington university

cecilia sécola

planet forward mystic aquarium fellow | george washington university