UNF receives gift from River Branch Foundation to support IERE

The University of North Florida is proud to announce an impactful endowment from the River Branch Foundation in support of the Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE). This visionary gift of more than $1 million serves two purposes: providing scholarship funding for students pursuing a degree in environmental sciences and critical support to IERE for the enhancement of essential programming.

The River Branch Endowed Scholarship is the first scholarship designated specifically for students in the UNF environmental sciences bachelor's degree program and represents a meaningful investment in the next generation of environmental leaders. The River Branch Endowed Excellence Fund will also ensure that the IERE's most critical needs are met as it continues to grow and evolve.

"This extraordinary gift from the River Branch Foundation opens doors for students who are passionate about environmental science and strengthens the long-term vitality of the IERE," said Dr. Erin Largo-Wight, professor and IERE director. "It's a powerful affirmation of our program's mission to connect education, research and community engagement in service of a healthier planet. We are deeply grateful for the River Branch Foundation's vision and generosity and can't wait to see what our students and faculty will accomplish from this gift."

This gift builds on a longstanding partnership between the River Branch Foundation and UNF. In 2006, the Foundation provided a significant endowment that played a critical role in establishing IERE. Thanks to their continued investment, IERE has supported meaningful, community-focused research through projects such as the production and installation of Pervious Oyster Shell Habitat (POSH) units, which are helping to restore local shorelines including at Matanzas, Kingsley Plantation and Cumberland Island.

The launch of UNF's new bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, developed in collaboration with IERE's Joint Faculty and Community Council, has already exceeded expectations. Initially projected to enroll 40 students by the end of 2025, the program met that goal with its first cohort this spring and has since received more than 200 applications from current and incoming students.