NW Valley Times

Grand Canyon University's environmental science program is collaborating with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to monitor water quality, providing students with hands-on experience and career opportunities. Dr. Berenise Charlton, an assistant professor at GCU, initiated this partnership after meeting ADEQ representatives while working with Kyleigh Howell, a junior majoring in environmental science.

Charlton expressed her desire to offer significant opportunities within the small program. "It expands the reach of her research and connects her and her student team to ADEQ facilities and personnel as they help monitor water quality around the state," said Dr. Jon Valla, associate dean of the College of Natural Sciences.

The collaboration has grown since its inception, with students now assigned 10 sites for monitoring water quality. This allows them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios while building their resumes. Students collect data monthly on various parameters such as temperature, turbidity, pH, and microbial content.

Kyleigh Howell shared insights into the program's impact: “Every month we gather data that's important and necessary for maintaining the environment and making sure that everything is being kept clean and safe for others." She emphasized that participating in such initiatives demonstrates community care to potential employers.

The program not only offers practical experience but also mentorship from Charlton. Students gain skills in innovation, communication, and environmental stewardship. "When students participate in partnerships like this...they are serving others and helping others flourish," Charlton stated.

Howell encourages fellow students to join: “It benefits yourself and your future by gaining this experience...along with impacting the environment." The partnership has profoundly impacted her life by teaching leadership skills and patience through research challenges.

Some graduates have secured positions at ADEQ's water department due to their involvement in this initiative. As Howell noted about Charlton’s mentorship: “I am so incredibly grateful for her mentorship...She's so incredibly supportive."