University of Richmond Geography and the Environment Professor Stephanie Spera Selected as Voices for Science Fellow

August 16, 2022

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Geography and the environment professor Stephanie Spera has been selected as one of 40 scientists to participate in the 2022 Voices for Science cohort.

Voices for Science equips scientists with valuable communications and outreach skills with a focus on engaging with a variety of audiences — from legislators to the public. The program is run by AGU, an international, nonprofit scientific association dedicated to advancing Earth and space science.

“Stephanie was selected for this highly competitive opportunity based on demonstrated leadership and the potential to positively influence the community,” said Todd Lookingbill, chair of the Department of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability. “She is already doing great science communication work, and this program will further that commitment.”  

As a Voices for Science fellow, Spera will have access to workshops focused on communications and policy, support for conducting and organizing outreach opportunities, and funding for travel to relevant conferences and meetings.

Spera, who has worked at UR since 2019, is an expert on climate change and land use. She recently received the Excellence in Instructional Technology Award from the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges, and her research has been supported by NASA and the National Parks Service.

She is the cohost of “How We Got Here: Because the Earth Needs Professional Help,” a podcast focused on career paths related to environmental issues.

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