Degree program: M.A.M.A.

Year accepted: 2024

Advisor: TBD

Research: Coastal resilience, Natural hazards, Emergency management

Background: B.S. Marine Sciences, Minor Coastal management and computer science, Eckerd College

 

 

Jane Dower is a graduate student in the Marine Affairs Master program from Los Angeles. Previously, she attended Eckerd College, a small liberal arts college in Florida, where she majored in marine science with minors in coastal management and computer science. Originally drawn to marine mammals as an undergrad, she was assisting on a research project on microplastics when she realized she was more interested in how we handle problems like that versus studying the problem itself. Her favorite classes in undergrad were coastal hazards and international disaster management. These classes, paired with her experiences when she had to evacuate from school for Hurricane Ian, cinched her interest in disaster management. She knew she was leaving only a few belongings behind in her dorm room while others were leaving their homes and livelihoods.

Outside of her studies as an undergraduate, she also participated in activism on campus and in Washington, D.C.. Her work on campus focused on working with issues such as 100% renewable energy on campus, achieving zero waste, and establishing a food pantry for students. In her work in Washington, D.C., she lobbied on the Hill and the White House for expanded protections in the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act and a bill on the “Right to Repair” tech products. This inspired her to go into government after her studies.

Her research at URI will center on coastal resilience, natural hazards, and emergency management. She wants to help people and is especially interested in better preparing coastlines and coastal communities for the impacts of climate change, including hurricanes. Outside the program, she plays the flute and enjoys shopping at vintage and antique stores. She is looking forward to experiencing the four seasons here in Rhode Island.