Dr. Sadie Ryan+ Dr. Olivier Walther Professorships
Dr. Sadie Ryan and Dr. Olivier Walther were recognized at the 2024 UF Research Foundation Professorship Awards. These professorships are awarded to tenured faculty members who have a distinguished current record of research.
Dr. Sadie Ryan
Professor Sadie Ryan has made outstanding contributions to medical geography since joining the UF Department of Geography a decade ago. With nearly 200 peer-reviewed articles and more than 11,000 citations, her work on disease risk and spatiotemporal modeling in climate-health settings addresses urgent global challenges. As a professor and co-director of the Florida Climate Institute, Ryan collaborates with leading global health organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, showcasing her leadership in understanding disease ecology amidst a changing climate.
Dr. Olivier Walther
Professor of Geography Olivier Walther is focusing on cross-border trade and transnational political violence in West Africa. Walther’s research and partnership with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development have influenced major international policies, such as the United Nations’ Border Stability Mechanism program. With millions in research grants and two published books under his belt, Walther continues to enhance UF’s ties to Africa and deepen our understanding of regional challenges like armed conflict and urbanization.
Gabrielle Quadrado – UF Water Institute Ambassador
Quadrado was named UF Water Institute Ambassador for the second consecutive year at the 2024 Water Institute Awards Ceremony. This role has been an incredible opportunity to serve the UF water community. The program fosters professional development opportunities for graduate students while promoting connections and collaborations among colleagues with a mutual interest in water-related issues. “One of my proudest contributions as an ambassador has been founding the Lunch by the Water seminar series, a monthly event where students strengthen their presentation skills and connect with peers and faculty in a supportive environment. Looking forward to another year of advancing water research and building connections within this inspiring community!” – Gabrielle Quadrado said.
Michelle Ruiz+ William Averette Anderson Fund
Ph.D. student Michelle Ruiz to join Bill Anderson Fund. https://lnkd.in/edRSykEX
Huge congratulations to Michelle Ruiz for being selected for the Fall 2024 cohort of the William Averette Anderson Fund! This amazing program supports minority graduate students in disaster and hazard-related fields, helping build leadership through fellowship, mentorship, and professional development. Michelle is joining a powerful network dedicated to advancing disaster risk reduction and environmental justice.
Kaitlyn Anderson’s Summer Internship with EPA
Kaitlyn Anderson, a master’s student, recently interned with the EPA through the Pathways Internship Program, working in the Office of Water at Headquarters in Washington, D.C. As a Student Trainee (Physical Science), Kaitlyn conducted QAQC on GIS models, consulted on cartography and model improvements, and contributed to policy analysis for meetings with Minnesota state, tribal, and EPA representatives. She also attended national EPA meetings and federal intern events, gaining insights into federal service. Inspired by the high demand for geographic skills, Kaitlyn plans to pursue a career in the federal workforce after graduating this summer.
