News
September 16, 2021
Miranda Rice is a program specialist for the Permian Basin Regional Planning Commission (PBRPC). She graduated undergrad from Howard Payne University (HPU) in Brownwood, TX with two degrees: one is Chemistry with a biochemistry concentration and the other is political science through the Honors Academy at HPU. After graduation, Rice applied for the Master of Public Health program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences in Abilene, TX. She received a full scholarship and graduated from TTUHSC with a 4.0 GPA. She was awarded the Outstanding Public Health Student and surprised her family with an award and a speech at graduation. Rice was offered a job with PBRPC before my graduation date, and was very proud of that. She moved to Midland two weeks after graduation and began working with PBRPC on May 17, 2021.
Miranda Rice was also a past recipient of a SWANA scholarship. We talked to Rice to see what the scholarship and the industry means to her.
MR: I am beyond thankful and appreciative for the SWANA Scholarship Program. My experience was awesome. Receiving the scholarship provided assurance and motivation. Knowing there were individuals who were behind me and supporting me, even though they did not know me on a personal level was very encouraging.
MR: I would encourage them to look at the field from all angles. There is something for everyone who has an interest in solid waste. The individuals who are involved with SWANA have such a breadth of knowledge. There are lots of different avenues to pursue within this field. I would encourage individuals that are considering this field to ask questions, do their research, and remain involved! It is important to continue to learn and stay up to date on things even after your time as a scholarship recipient has come to a conclusion.
MR: I am looking forward to learning. Growing in my field and learning from other professionals who have a wealth of knowledge. SWANA has an amazing encouraging community filled with individuals who truly care about their fields. Professionals are willing to converse, ask questions, and share information and that is something I am excited to be apart of. I am also excited to meet other SWANA YP’s and grow professional relationships with my peers.
Miranda with her father and SWANA Member, Michael Rice