2026 Scholarship Recipients
The Robert P. Stearns/SCS Engineers Scholarship Award Recipient
Maeen Md Khairul Akter
Stony Brook University, New York, Department of Technology and Society
Maeen Md Khairul Akter is a PhD candidate in the Department of Technology and Society at Stony Brook University, New York, USA. His PhD research in Technology, Policy and Innovation strives to solve data analysis and policy challenges pertaining to solid waste composition.
“Winning the SWANA Robert Stearns Graduate Scholarship 2026 is a pivotal event in my academic journey. As a SWANA student member, receiving this prestigious award in the field of solid waste management is a proud moment for me. This recognition will greatly catalyze my efforts to advance research and education in solid waste management and sustainability by addressing prevailing challenges in the solid waste industry.”
-Maeen Md Khairul Akter
The Harvey W. Gershman Scholarship
Angelique T. Pagán Medina
Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, Environmental Engineering
Angelique T. Pagán Medina is an Environmental Engineering student at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico with a strong interest in solid waste management, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. She has been actively involved with SWANA through the Caribbean Chapter as a Young Professional Chapter Liaison and has participated in the SWANA Student Design Competition for two consecutive years.
"Receiving the Harvey W. Gershman Undergraduate Scholarship is truly an honor and a reminder that the work I have been doing to bring more visibility to solid waste management matters. As a student from Puerto Rico, I see firsthand how important this field is for islands with limited land and resources. This scholarship encourages me to keep learning, stay involved with SWANA, and continue working toward my goal of becoming a solid waste professional who can give back to my island and help strengthen its resource management future. ¡Muchas Gracias!"
-Angelique T. Pagán Medina
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