Mel Fellowship Program, Maryland, USA – 2025

Empowering Future Leaders in Natural Resources and Urban Forestry
$10,000 Fellowship | Hands-On Experience | Professional Mentorship

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Program Overview

The Mel Fellowship Program 2025, offered by the Maryland Forestry Foundation, provides an exceptional opportunity for Maryland college students to deepen their engagement in Natural Resources and Urban Forestry. This prestigious fellowship awards four selected students a $10,000 stipend, hands-on experience, and access to a professional network of leaders and advocates in environmental conservation.

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Honoring a Legacy

Named in memory of Mel Noland, a trailblazing advocate for sustainable forestry and Chesapeake Bay protection, the fellowship celebrates his decades of dedication to forestry education and conservation. Mel’s lasting legacy includes the establishment of numerous school forests across Maryland and his 2009 recognition as an Honorary Admiral of the Chesapeake by Governor Martin O’Malley.

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Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is ideal for college students who:

• Are Maryland residents

• Are currently enrolled in a Natural Resources-related program

• Are passionate about environmental conservation, forestry, or urban forestry

• Can commit approximately 5 hours per week to fellowship activities

• Are eager to gain practical field experience and build a career network

⛔ Open to domestic (U.S.) students only.

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🎓 Eligible Degree Level

• Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Natural Resources or Urban Forestry programs at accredited colleges or universities in the U.S.

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📚 Fields of Study

• Forestry

• Urban & Community Forestry

• Natural Resource Management

• Environmental Science (with a forestry focus)

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💰 Fellowship Benefits

Each fellow will receive a $10,000 stipend, disbursed in two installments:

• $3,000 in 2025

• $7,000 in 2026

Funds are meant to offset tuition and educational expenses. If tuition exceeds the stipend amount, the fellowship is considered non-taxable.

In addition, fellows will gain:

✅ Leadership Opportunities

• Serve as ambassadors for the Natural Resources Careers Camp and Maryland Forestry Foundation initiatives

✅ Networking & Exposure

• Engage with forestry professionals, policymakers, and nonprofit leaders

• Attend statewide and national conferences

✅ Research & Outreach

• Participate in forest policy research

• Promote forest education through blog posts, webinars, and social media

✅ Professional Development

• Travel across Maryland and beyond for field visits, events, and career-building opportunities

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📅 Key Dates (2025–2026)

• Applications Open: May 15, 2025

• Deadline to Apply: July 15, 2025

• Notification of Award: July 30, 2025

• Fellowship Term: October 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026

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📝 Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Online application form

2. Resume highlighting relevant coursework, projects, or experience

3. Two letters of recommendation:

   • One from a faculty member in a natural resources field

   • One from a non-family member familiar with your character and motivation

📂 Review Appendix A for Natural Resources Careers Fellowship and Appendix B for Urban & Community Forestry Fellowship before applying.

✅ How to Apply:
Visit the Mel Fellowship Application Page, upload all required documents, and submit your complete application before the deadline. You’ll receive an email confirmation upon successful submission.

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🌱 Why Apply?

The Mel Fellowship Program is more than just financial aid—it’s a launchpad for your career in environmental conservation. Whether you’re planting the seeds for a career in urban forestry, forest education, or ecosystem management, this fellowship provides mentorship, experience, and exposure to help you grow professionally.

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Learn More & Apply

Visit the official Mel Fellowship Application Portal for full details, application forms, and resources.

🕒 Deadline to apply: July 15, 2025

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Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Maryland’s natural resource future while advancing your own academic and professional goals.

Invest in your future. Lead the way in sustainable forestry.

APPLY HERE