Aquarium of the Pacific Invites Southern California College Students to Apply for its New CELP Scholar Program

Recipients will engage with Aquarium staff members and programs to explore STEM career paths, join a growing community of peers in related study fields, and will be awarded $10,000

Diver swims by underwater oil rig surrounded by fish

Credit: Ken Kurtis

December 5, 2023

December 5, 2023, Long Beach California—Students currently enrolled in community college undergraduate, masters, or PhD programs in Southern California studying fields in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related to the ocean are invited to apply to for the inaugural cohort of the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Community, Equity, Learning, and Persistence (CELP) Scholar Program. Applications will open December 15, 2023, and are due by February 19, 2024. Recipients will be invited to engage with Aquarium staff members and programs to explore STEM career paths, participate in professional development sessions, join a growing community of peers in related study fields, and will be awarded $10,000.

The Aquarium’s CELP Scholar Program seeks to broaden participation in marine sciences, help more students find their own community in STEM, and support students’ persistence in the field. With this program, the Aquarium looks to bring a greater variety of lived experiences to the challenge of ensuring a healthy and sustainable ocean for everyone.

“All of us have a role to play in addressing climate change and the degradation of our ocean. But not everyone may have the same access. The goal of this program is to open the door to as many environmental stewards, advocates, allies, and young scientists as possible,” said Dr. Peter Kareiva, Aquarium of the Pacific president and CEO.

The Aquarium plans to announce the CELP Scholar Program recipients in May 2024. The award recipients will be selected in part by a committee of Aquarium staff, scholar alumni, and members of the community. To qualify, students must also be enrolled through December 2024 and commit to active participation in the program. Learn more about eligibility and the application process or to apply. Applicants of any race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, with disabilities, age, or veteran status are welcome. Learn more about making a donation to support this program.