Jada White is a student at James Madison University. She majors in Integrated Science and Technology with a concentration in Energy and Environmental Sustainability. She will graduate in 2026. Read more about her story in her own words below!
Background: What inspired your interest in clean transportation and/or sustainability?
“I have always had an interest in the environment, I would like to restore and protect the environment. Growing up in a high developed area I saw the impact of human activity on the environment over my lifetime. By working within sustainability I will get to work to better the environment and reduce human impact. I will be able to help people and the planet at the same time.”
After you graduate, what kind of work would you like to be doing? What are you most excited for about your future career?
“Green design and technologies, I am most excited to work within cities to implement sustainable practices in cities.”
How has this scholarship helped you so far, and how might this scholarship help you prepare for your potential career?
“This scholarship has helped me by exposing me to a variety of companies in Virginia. Additionally I am able to gather contacts at each company and develop my professional network. This allows me to have direct communication people working in my desired fields. This scholarship will help prepare me for my potential career by providing me with a hands on opportunity. I will get to develop a project I am passionate about and present my work to my future employers. Additionally, I get to work under the U.S. Department of Energy which is one government agency I aspire to have a career in.”
Congratulations, Jada! We can’t wait to see your work in the future of green design and technologies!
This article is part of a series highlighting the recipients of the Last Mile Leadership Program (LMLP) scholarship, a component of a U.S. Department of Energy project focusing on decarbonization in Virginia. This award is run through the LODESTAR program operated by Virginia Clean Cities. Awarded to students, these scholarships are aimed at advancing clean transportation and electric vehicle (EV) adoption.