FAIRFAX, VA | October 18, 2017
Sharon Spradling joined the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation (SMSC) and the School of Integrative Studies (SIS) as a leading academic program coordinator for the B.A. in Environmental and Sustainability Studies degree. Her knowledge in energy conservation efforts and environmental program management is amplified by her expansive leadership style.
She has an impressive resume and work ethic; she was an active duty biomedical science corps officer with the U.S. Air Force working in conservation and medical entomology. Additionally, she was a fellow in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Scholars Program, taught in George Mason’s Honors College, and now, teaches in George Mason’s Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science (GGS). Her teaching and mentoring experience in GGS led her to be recognized by George Mason’s Office of the Provost for Undergraduate Education in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016.
Spradling is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Earth Systems and Geoinformation Sciences at George Mason University, and is expected is complete this degree in 2018.
Upon her transition into an academic mentorship role, she will be handling recruitment operations for students interested in SMSC and SIS’ academic programs. Not only will she be working with prospective students, but she will also serve as a line of communication between SMSC, SIS, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), and the College of Science (COS).
Spradling shared her thoughts on students seeking environmental studies:
“Always keep their options open, not just in terms of jobs and internships, but also in terms of avenues of learning. So, if they think they’re interested in environmental studies, don’t discount the chance to take a class or even do an internship or talk to someone about a field that they feel is unrelated, because almost always, it’s a rewarding experience and it will somehow come back to help them.”
October 18, 2017
