Switzer Foundation Awards 22 Environmental Fellowships, One Leadership Grant

BELFAST, Maine, Aug. 5, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Twenty-two environmental scholars were announced today as recipients of the Switzer Environmental Fellowship, a program of the Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation that recognizes the achievements of environmental leaders and their potential to drive positive change. One Switzer Leadership grant was also awarded to International Rivers to work with Switzer Fellow Dipti Vaghela as their Energy Solutions Coordinator analyzing micro-hydropower as an alternative to large dams in the developing world.

2013 SWITZER FELLOWSHIPS

Each year, at least 20 promising environmental leaders are awarded $15,000 each to complete masters and doctoral degrees to advance their skills and develop their expertise to address critical environmental challenges.  Nearly $14 million in grants has been invested in Switzer Fellows over a 27-year period.

"Today's environmental issues are increasingly complex and require an ability to translate scientific, ecological and social knowledge across disciplines and apply it in real world settings. The 2013 Switzer Environmental Fellows are at the cutting edge of science and policy and will be supported with funding, professional coaching and a network of leaders to help them achieve results.  Their problem-solving abilities and innovation will make a difference," explained Executive Director Lissa Widoff.

The Switzer Foundation identifies, supports and nurtures emerging environmental leaders. Fellowships are merit-based and rigorously competitive.  Candidates must be recognized for their leadership capacity by their academic institution or by environmental experts.

More information on the 2013 Switzer Fellows and the Leadership Grant and other grant recipients can be found at http://www.switzernetwork.org.

The Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation is a results-driven family foundation that invests in individuals and organizations that drive positive environmental change. Founded in 1986 the Switzer Foundation is a grantmaking organization that mobilizes leaders from diverse disciplines who focus on integrated solutions to environmental problems. Nearly $14 million has been given through the Switzer Environmental Fellowship Program and related grants.  The Foundation supports a network of 530 Fellows who are leaders in nonprofit, public policy, business, academic and government sectors working to solve today's environmental challenges.