Olivia Schroeder

Something About Me

“Working on this project deepened my commitment to environmental policy, particularly in small island developing states like The Bahamas. The collaboration with grassroots organizations and local communities showed me the power of collective action in conservation. This experience has inspired me to pursue a career that combines my passion for environmental justice with policy development to protect fragile ecosystems.” 

Olivia Schroeder is a third-year student pursuing a major in Environmental Studies and Geography with an emphasis in Geographic Information Systems and environmental health. She has a strong commitment to exploring the intersection between climate change and environmental health. Olivia currently serves as the Public Outreach Coordinator for the Associated Students Department of Public Worms, where she creates educational resources on composting, vermicomposting, and sustainable gardening, aiming to promote regenerative agriculture. Additionally, Olivia works as a Laboratory Technician in Dr. Cherie Briggs’ lab, conducting dissections and DNA analysis on macroinvertebrates, with a focus on Sierra Nevada species. Her field research at the Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory includes monitoring endangered frog populations and assessing disease risks. This past summer, she collaborated with Miranda Scalzo and organizations such as the Community and College Partners Program (C2P2), the Bahamas Sport Fishing & Conservation Association, and the Environmental Defense Fund. She is involved in policy analysis and development to address environmental challenges in the Bahamas, reviewing current policies and contributing to a policy deliverable that outlines conservation strategies. Olivia is passionate about using her research and experiences to influence policy related to environmental health in developing countries.