#@sppgatech

Also, the School taught me how to work well in a team, with people of all ages, as the main part of every class and our grade is the projects that we do. Now, I can work with my fellow interns, managers, and VPs and display a professional and confident demeanor."

The team was rewarded for their “Liberating a Dammed & Culverted Georgia” project that addresses the best practices and regulations on dam and culvert removal. The goal of the project is to prevent water contamination, damage to aquatic wildlife, and improve aquatic connectivity in the state of Georgia. “Georgia is home to thousands of dams and culverts. These structures present a growing concern about the disruption to waterways. These structures lead to water contamination, damage aquatic wildlife, and suppress the growth of various species and can threaten community safety when they fail. This study has conducted research concerning dam and culvert removal and have produced a six-state comparison, dam removal case study, and regulation database. This study has identified the best practices, permitting processes, and regulations surrounding dam and culvert removal in the state of Georgia through these deliverables. The results of the study will ultimately provide The Nature Conservancy with the best practices and regulatory understanding needed to begin working toward dam removal and culvert restoration, with the goal of improving aquatic connectivity in Georgia.” CHECK out more.

As her letter of nomination stated, “Her innovative zeal has transformed the School of Public Policy’s undergraduate program, enriched the lives of all of the students in our major, and increased the recognition of Georgia Tech as the home of a unique, rigorous, and successful public policy program. She has performed far beyond standard expectations with a blend of professional seriousness and smiling warmth that has greatly enhanced the learning environment for both students and professors.” Ms. Ross is richly deserving of this national award.