Marie Wood described on Apr. 10 how a chance encounter at Utah State University led her to the S.J. and Jessie E. Quinney Scholarship program, setting her on a new academic path. Wood said she first discovered the Mason Wildlife Exhibit in the Quinney Natural Resources Library as a high school student, which resulted in an introduction to both wildlife biology and scholarship opportunities.
The Quinney Scholarship aims to support students interested in natural resources, conservation, and environmental science by providing financial assistance and encouraging involvement in campus organizations. This is part of broader efforts by the USU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources to prepare students for leadership roles through experiential learning, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary collaboration in agriculture, ecology, and natural resources, according to the official website.
Wood said that after learning about the requirements for becoming a Quinney Scholar, she found motivation to improve academically: “When I heard what was required of a Quinney Scholar, I suddenly saw my goal — a clear way forward.” She recounted retaking classes to raise her GPA and getting involved with community projects such as starting an environmental club.
Once at USU, Wood said that receiving the scholarship gave her “the chance to focus entirely on learning” without financial stress. She participated in internships like Climate Adaptation Scientist of Tomorrow where she worked with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data: “Through the experiences connected to this scholarship, I discovered something I love — and something I’m good at.”
To meet involvement requirements set by the scholarship program, Wood joined clubs such as the Natural Resource Student Council: “From those experiences,” she said,”I learned how much I enjoy collaborating with others.” Now serving as a Natural Resources Ambassador at USU,
she plans outreach efforts aimed at helping other students find similar opportunities.
The S.J. and Jessie E. Quinney Foundation has supported education related to conservation for decades; its scholarships provide $8,000 per year for up to four years for qualifying students pursuing degrees within USU’s College of Agriculture & Natural Resources—a college that advances applied knowledge through undergraduate research opportunities,utilizes facilities like Lytle Ranch Preserve,
and extends research reach through centers such as The Center for Colorado River Studies.
Looking ahead,
Wood said she wants “to tackle climate change and help create sustainable communities.” She added: “If I can help even one student find an opportunity that changes their life for the better,
it’ll be worth it.”
According to its official website,
the college functions as part of Utah State University—offering programs designed around public service,
applied science,and leadership development under directors recognized nationally within fields like ecology.
