UA Junior Earns Munson Scholarship For Black Warrior Riverkeeper Internship

TUSCALOOSA, AL — A University of Alabama junior has been awarded a scholarship grant to support a summer internship focused on environmental conservation and public outreach.

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The Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation announced Thursday that it has awarded the scholarship to Mykah Hughley, who is studying in the University of Alabama's College of Communication and Information Sciences.

The scholarship will support an internship with Black Warrior Riverkeeper, which patrols waterways, responds to pollution reports and enforces environmental laws

Black Warrior Riverkeeper says the Munson Foundation has supported scholarships for water conservation-related internships through UA's Department of Advertising and Public Relations since 2008.

Hughley said she is eager to contribute to the organization's environmental advocacy efforts while gaining professional experience.

"For so many years, I've dreamed of finally getting the chance to contribute my experience to a cause where I can make a concrete impact," Hughley said in a statement. "I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity through C&IS, and I'm ready to serve as an intern who strives to protect our environment."

At UA, Hughley has been involved with the Capstone Agency, The Crimson White and the Lambda Sigma Honors Society.

Hughley is also set to serve as vice president of publications for the Public Relations Student Society of America this fall.

Brooke McKeever, chair of UA's Department of Advertising and Public Relations, said the internship will provide valuable professional development opportunities.

"I am excited for Mykah to hone her communication skills by working with Black Warrior Riverkeeper this summer," McKeever said. "I also hope the work will cultivate a passion for helping nonprofit organizations, conservation, and the environment."

Charles Scribner, executive director of Black Warrior Riverkeeper, also said the organization has hosted Munson interns from UA's advertising and public relations program each summer since 2013.

"The interns sharpen their considerable PR skills to enhance our outreach while gaining experience and connections in the nonprofit sector," Scribner said. "Mykah has already impressed me with excellent questions and planning that will simultaneously benefit our clean water advocacy and her professional growth."

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