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Hailey Peirce’s fellowship with the Center for Civic Responsibility and Leadership, part of Millersville’s University College, has led to some great networking and an opportunity to serve on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement.
Through the fellowship, led by Dr. Laura Granruth, faculty coordinator for the Center and associate professor of social work, Peirce was introduced to alumna Ruby Mundok, a 2023 graduate who is the executive director of the Commission. Mundok works with students, stakeholders and legislators across the Commonwealth to advocate for the next generation of Pennsylvanians. “I was able to meet Ruby and learn more about opportunities in our state government,” Peirce says. “She told me about position openings in the Commission, and I applied by sending her my resume and participating in an interview with her.”
Peirce is a marine biology major with minors in chemistry and environmental policy and management. She is a mentor for the NSF S-STEM Program, which funds scholarships for academically talented low-income STEM majors, and the Honors College. She is treasurer of the Ocean Science Club and vice president of the Entomology Club and is also working on her Honors and Departmental Thesis with Dr. Carolyn Weaver, assistant professor of general biology, foundations of biology, concepts of botany, ecology and evolution.
“I was able to develop my thesis question and plan through the McNairy Library Research Fellowship last semester,” Peirce explains. “Along with my thesis team, I am looking into the role of Geukensia Demissa (ribbed mussels) in wetland conservation.”
Peirce was officially appointed to the Commission on July 7, and she is eager to begin her work as “a voice for nature. Using my knowledge and passion for biology, I will be working with other young people to lead the charge in protecting our environment. I am really excited to work with people my age who share my environmental goals and make meaningful change in Pennsylvania!”
Students with 15 or more credits may apply for the CCRL Fellowship at https://www.millersville.edu/collegecenters/ccrl/ccrl-fellows.php. Students may also volunteer at the CCRL.
