6/26/2024 – During Earth Week, the Dennis Conservation Land Trust (DCLT) announced its first Joseph W. Masse Environmental Scholarship, a $1,000 award generously funded by anonymous donors. This scholarship supports college-bound seniors at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School (DYRHS) who demonstrate academic promise and a passion for Cape Cod’s environment. We are proud to introduce this year’s awardees: Molly Gedutis and Emma Gallagher.
Molly Gedutis: A Champion for Environmental Research
Molly Gedutis has been an advocate for environmental protection since middle school and recently committed to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth as a cell and molecular biology major. Her journey began with beekeeping in seventh grade and blossomed as she became a founding member of the DY Environmental Club. Molly’s passion was further ignited through her AP Environmental Science class and then a summer science fair internship with DCLT. Her project focused on mosquitoes and public health and resulted in the EPA Award at the regional science fair and a third place finish overall at the state-wide science fair.
Molly’s commitment to environmental issues and her community shines brightly, and she plans to remain active in these areas throughout her college years and beyond.
Emma Gallagher: A Passionate Advocate for Marine Conservation
Emma Gallagher will be attending Northeastern University with a combined major in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. From her early fascination with backyard worms to conducting water quality tests, Emma’s deep appreciation for ecosystems has shaped her academic pursuits. Her internship at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History provided her with invaluable hands-on experience in marine ecosystems and paved the way for her major field of study at college this coming academic year.
As a foundering member of the DY Environmental Club, Emma has shown exceptional leadership in promoting environmental advocacy and community service. Her efforts in organizing beach clean-up events have created a culture of responsibility among her peers. Emma’s participation in Northeastern’s co-op program will allow her to explore opportunities in marine sciences, particularly under the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.
A Bright Future for Cape Cod’s Environment
Molly and Emma perfectly exemplify the spirit of the Joseph W. Masse Environmental Scholarship. Their academic achievements and dedication to environmental stewardship make them deserving recipients and tough acts to follow. We are confident that both will make significant contributions to the field of environmental studies and continue to inspire their communities around Cape Cod and beyond. Congratulations, Molly and Emma!