WECT NEWS NOW: Bald Head Island Conservancy lands $424K federal grant to train next generation of scientists

BALD HEAD ISLAND, N.C. (WECT) - Representatives from the Bald Head Island Conservancy joined Randy Aldridge on WECT News Now to discuss the $424,582 grant recently awarded to the organization.

The grant is from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to expand its hands-on education, internship, and research programs.

“Unlocking this grant and this funding really allows us to start a program with local community college students,” said Kaitlyn O’Toole. “We’re so lucky to have amazing donors and a community that supports us, and this grant through IMLS will really just up our ante that much more.”

The funds will support opportunities across multiple experience levels, including high school volunteers, undergraduate interns, nine-month post-baccalaureate technicians and graduate sustainability fellows.

“These kids are getting a really great hands-on approach to being like, ‘If I want to do science, this is what science can look like,’” said Dr. Jennifer Wiggin. “It’s just a really unique thing to do outside of the classroom for them.”

Community members and students interested in volunteering, internships, or educational programs can learn more here.

Watch the full interview at the top of the story.