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Tomorrow’s sustainability leaders
As an undergraduate student studying soil science at the University of Benin in Edo State, Nigeria, Blessing Aleladia learned about the severe pollution problems in the wetlands of the Niger Delta, which stretches across nine states in the southern part of the country. She conducted an extensive search for graduate programs where she could gain expertise to help address the region’s environmental degradation. Ultimately, she chose to travel 6,000 miles to pursue a master’s degree in the School of Environmental Sustainability.
Blessing Aleladia (MS ’24), center, conducts field research on native and invasive plants in the wetlands of northern Michigan in 2023.
While applying for graduate school, Blessing connected with Brian Ohsowski, PhD, who co-leads Team Typha, a research group developing strategies to restore biodiversity to wetlands in the Great Lakes Region. Ohsowski became Blessing’s graduate adviser and invited her to join the research group. He notes that while wetlands in the Great Lakes region differ from the tropical wetlands of the Niger Delta, many of the same principles and challenges apply, particularly problems with contamination.
Team Typha aims to develop methods of decontaminating soil and water while combating invasive wetland plants. Blessing’s graduate research builds on these efforts, with a focus on contaminants commonly found in the Niger Delta wetlands. She is exploring methods of converting harvested invasive plants into biochar, a charcoal-like substance, and using it to absorb heavy metals in wetland water and soil.
Through her studies and hands-on experience with Team Typha, Blessing is gaining knowledge and skills that will transfer to nearly any part of the world. After completing her master’s degree, she plans to work in restoration ecology and pursue a PhD. In the longer term, Blessing intends to return to Nigeria to focus on advancing environmental initiatives in the Niger Delta. She said her experience at Loyola has been instrumental in advancing her goals.
“My journey at Loyola has been truly transformative, influencing my academic pursuits and personal growth,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from my advisor and thesis committee, as well as my lab group on Team Typha. Their support has been invaluable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better school for my graduate program.”
Ohsowski noted that Blessing can take the connections she has built at Loyola with her wherever she goes. For her part, Blessing is excited to continue her journey as a member of a global network of environmental scientists collaborating across borders to make a positive difference in the world.
Outstanding graduates
SES students are remarkably committed to sustainability, social justice, and academic excellence. Meet some 2024 graduates who received awards for their accomplishments and contributions. They shared thoughts on how their education prepared them for their future careers.
Max Henson
BS in environmental science—conservation and restoration ecology
“My time at SES has introduced me to the depth and interdisciplinarity of environmental science and sustainability. SES faculty have played a huge role in getting me excited about things I never thought I would enjoy, like statistics and coding, eco-spirituality, and soil health.”
Ixchel Barraza Zapata
BA in environmental studies
“SES prepared me with an interdisciplinary framework that blends social justice, STEM, and sustainability. This framework ignited my enthusiasm to apply my knowledge to tangible, sustainable initiatives. Access to professional development opportunities empowered me to evolve into a leader and build meaningful connections.”
Hanan Abdillahi
BA in environmental policy, BA in political science
“I am grateful for the diverse classes I have taken, the amazing faculty and staff I have learned from, and the skills I have developed throughout my time in SES. I have felt encouraged, supported, and empowered by many individuals and mentors. I am thankful for opportunities such as internships and leadership positions, which have furthered my passion for contributing to policy change.”
Michael W. Chopra
BS in environmental science, BA in film and digital media
“SES prepared me for my career in film-making and videography because it approaches the environmental science degree from a multidisciplinary perspective. I developed a well-rounded understanding of environmental problems and solutions, which I can apply to my communications and digital media work to help the public understand the issues.”
Luke Boehm
MS in environmental science and sustainability
“SES prepared me to excel in whatever career path I choose. I’ve gained many transferable skills and had the opportunity to make meaningful connections with professionals in the environmental and sustainability fields. Most importantly, I’m prepared to create positive, meaningful change in my career.”
Michael E. Hughey
BA in environmental studies
"I have gained a lot of wonderful knowledge and skills, particularly with respect to sustainable and resilient food systems and regenerative agriculture. I have had the opportunity to learn research skills and gain hands-on experience in the field I would like to go into."
While applying for graduate school, Blessing connected with Brian Ohsowski, PhD, who co-leads Team Typha, a research group developing strategies to restore biodiversity to wetlands in the Great Lakes Region. Ohsowski became Blessing’s graduate adviser and invited her to join the research group. He notes that while wetlands in the Great Lakes region differ from the tropical wetlands of the Niger Delta, many of the same principles and challenges apply, particularly problems with contamination.
Team Typha aims to develop methods of decontaminating soil and water while combating invasive wetland plants. Blessing’s graduate research builds on these efforts, with a focus on contaminants commonly found in the Niger Delta wetlands. She is exploring methods of converting harvested invasive plants into biochar, a charcoal-like substance, and using it to absorb heavy metals in wetland water and soil.
Through her studies and hands-on experience with Team Typha, Blessing is gaining knowledge and skills that will transfer to nearly any part of the world. After completing her master’s degree, she plans to work in restoration ecology and pursue a PhD. In the longer term, Blessing intends to return to Nigeria to focus on advancing environmental initiatives in the Niger Delta. She said her experience at Loyola has been instrumental in advancing her goals.
“My journey at Loyola has been truly transformative, influencing my academic pursuits and personal growth,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from my advisor and thesis committee, as well as my lab group on Team Typha. Their support has been invaluable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better school for my graduate program.”
Ohsowski noted that Blessing can take the connections she has built at Loyola with her wherever she goes. For her part, Blessing is excited to continue her journey as a member of a global network of environmental scientists collaborating across borders to make a positive difference in the world.