Degree program: M.A.M.A

Year accepted: 2025

Advisor: TBD

Research:  Coastal resilience, economic and natural recovery of coastal communities

Background: B.S. Environmental and Natural Resource Economics, B.S. Marine Affairs, Minor General Business, University of Rhode Island

Profile: 

Mollie Cunningham grew up in Warwick, Rhode Island, where her proximity to the coast shaped her deep appreciation for the ocean and the environment. A University of Rhode Island alum, Mollie graduated in December 2024 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics and another BS in Marine Affairs with a minor in Business. During her undergrad, Mollie discovered her passion for the marine environment, finding purpose in understanding the relationship between people, policy, and the ocean.

Now pursuing her graduate studies in the URI Marine Affairs program, Mollie hopes to explore the topics of maritime economics particularly the blue economy, issues of coastal access, and sustainable ocean energy development. Growing up in a coastal state, she recognizes the privilege of having constant access to the ocean and has long carried the mindset that the Earth gives us so much and we should dedicate ourselves to giving something back.

In addition to her coursework, Mollie serves as a Teaching Assistant for Introduction to Biology (BIO 103), where she leads the class’s lab section three times a week. She finds this experience genuinely rewarding as she has always loved the academic setting. Being a TA provides her with a unique opportunity for fostering belonging and engagement with like-minded peers.

Outside of the classroom, Mollie enjoys reading fiction, hiking, and playing ultimate frisbee. Her optimism and curiosity are visible throughout both her academic work and her personal life. She hopes to carry this mindset forward into a career advancing sustainable ocean policy within the growing blue economy.