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Partnership Promotes Environmental Careers to American Indians

Release Date: 09/05/2008
Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or r6press@epa.gov

(Dallas, Texas – September 5, 2008) A diverse workforce with increased ability to meet future needs is the goal of an agreement signed today by the Environmental Protection Agency, Haskell Indian Nations University, and the University of North Texas (UNT).

EPA and the two universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) pledging to work together on programs that support American Indian students pursuing careers in environmental fields. The agreement was signed by EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene, Haskell President Dr. Linda Sue Warner, and UNT President Dr. Gretchen M. Bataille.

“EPA recognizes the importance of working with colleges and universities to spur interest in environmental careers,” Greene said. “The students of today are the environmental stewards of tomorrow. With today’s agreement, we are helping ensure our health and the environment will be in good hands."

Under the agreement, EPA will work with the universities to establish a direct track for Haskell graduates to continue environmental studies at UNT. The agreement also focuses on student employment and volunteer programs, research participation, lectures and seminars on environmental issues, and community outreach.

EPA has partnered with several academic institutions to address the shortage of students pursuing degrees in environmental sciences and to encourage the development of a diverse workforce. The purpose of today’s MOU is to reinforce the working relationship between Haskell, UNT and EPA in support of educational, research, and outreach activities with the American Indian community. It will also assist EPA in its mission of protecting human health and the environment by increasing the number of professionals in the fields of environmental research, policy and program development

The agreement is one of many initiatives organized by EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and Tribal Affairs, which exists to enhance relationships with environmental justice communities and American Indian Nations. Additional information on the Tribal Affairs program is available at https://www.epa.gov/earth1r6/6dra/oejta/tribalaffairs/index.html.

To learn more about activities in EPA Region 6, please visit https://www.epa.gov/region6.

An EPA audio file is available at https://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/audio.htm#audio090508_mou .