Sera Lee, a PhD candidate in the Department of Technology and Society and former research student at the Waste Data and Analysis Center (WDAC), has been awarded a $25,000 International Fellowship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) for the 2024-2025 academic year. This fellowship will enable Sera to focus on completing her dissertation and disseminating her findings, which could help cities develop more effective strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change, to both academic and public audiences.
Sera’s research, under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth L. Hewitt, the Director of WDAC, explores the crucial intersection of human behavior and nature-driven technologies in mitigating disasters in urban environments. Her work focuses on promoting Nature-based Solutions (NbS), such as green infrastructure and ecological restoration, to combat climate change in cities. By integrating NbS into urban planning, Sera aims to create more sustainable and resilient communities that can better withstand the impacts of climate change while also addressing its root causes.
The AAUW International Fellowship is awarded to women who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, a commitment to original research, and a dedication to supporting other women and girls.
Congratulations, Sera!