A Colorado School of Mines master’s candidate studying the forecasting and management of water resources over large geographic areas has been awarded a fellowship by the American Association of University Women.
Danielle Tijerina is a student in the interdisciplinary Hydrologic Science and Engineering program and advised by Reed Maxwell, Rowlinson Professor of Hydrology in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering.
The AAUW Selected Professions Fellowship is awarded to women pursuing degrees in fields where female participation has traditionally been low. The program was originally focused on the male-dominated fields of law and medicine but has since expanded to include science and technology.
Tijerina uses hydrologic models to simulate water processes in the United States. “This will benefit water forecasters and managers in helping them to have a clearer understanding of the overall hydrologic picture and how decisions about water in one area will affect water resources in other locations,” said Tijerina, who served as a student researcher this summer at the National Water Center.
After graduation, Tijerina plans to work with agencies in the western U.S. on water resource management and planning, particularly in drought-prone areas. “I would like to provide information for policy makers to make more informed decisions concerning environmental issues, especially climate change,” she said.
Tijerina said she’s honored to be in the Hydrologic Science and Engineering program at Mines, with its strong female representation. “I think that having more diverse perspectives will advance our field and create the environment for even more innovation,” she said.
“I am a part of a legacy of strong-minded and creative women who are stepping away from more traditional female occupations,” Tijerina said. “I am encouraged to work harder and be a role model to younger women who are interested in science.”
Tijerina said the fellowship, which provides $18,000 for the 2017-2018 academic year, “will help me to connect to the AAUW community and promote values of equality.”
“AAUW fellows have contributed so much to the professions,” said Gloria Blackwell, AAUW vice president of fellowships, grants and global programs. “They are leading innovation in computer science and engineering, upholding women’s legal rights, ensuring that women’s contributions are acknowledged, and making us all proud in the process.”
AAUW has awarded more than $100 million in fellowships, grants and awards to 12,000 women from more than 140 countries since its founding in 1888. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization empowers women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research and has more than 170,000 members and supporters across the U.S., as well as 1,000 local branches and more than 800 college and university members.
CONTACT
Mark Ramirez, Managing Editor, Communications and Marketing | 303-273-3088 | ramirez@mines.edu
Emilie Rusch, Public Information Specialist, Communications and Marketing | 303-273-3361 | erusch@mines.edu
