Driven by science, the Everglades Foundation was co-founded in 1993 by environmental activist George Barley and philanthropist Paul Tudor Jones II to restore and protect the river of grass.
The non-profit organization’s work is based on three pillars; science, advocacy and education.
It aims to advance the understanding of the Everglades physically, chemically, and biologically. Its members advocate a strategic approach to influence government decision-making and build consensus among stakeholders. Lastly the Everglades Foundation offers literacy programs at schools to encourage the next generation of conservationists.
“The (main) goal is to restore, as much as possible, the historic flow of water,” said Begoñe Cazalis, the director of communications at the Everglades Foundation. “The future of South Florida depends on Everglades restoration.”
Sophia Bolivar is a senior at FIU majoring in digital journalism and focusing her studies on criminal justice. Sharing a love for both writing and photography has led her to pursue a career in journalism.
Layan Abu Tarboush is a digital broadcasting major at FIU, currently pursuing a minor in International Relations. As an international student from Jordan, Layan is fluent in both Arabic and English and has a deep interest in reporting on Middle Eastern affairs. Layan takes pride in being multicultural with great exposure from the East and West.
Virginia Tijerino is a Latina Junior majoring in Communications with a specific focus on journalism, accompanied by a minor in education. As a passionate bilingual student, she finds joy in writing and reporting stories on social events and about her community. She holds a strong passion for writing and aspires to pursue a career as a reporter.