R.H. Mallory Center for Community Geography 2024-2025 Applications for Community Geography Fellows Program
As a UNM R.H. Mallory Center for Community Geography Fellow, Katie is contributing to the advancement of community-engaged environmental mapping through her work with the New Mexico Backyard Refuge (NM BYR) Program. In collaboration with Laurel Ladwig, Katie is leading the development of a digital mapping component designed to strengthen public access to ecological data and program outcomes.
Building upon a buffer map developed in a previous semester, Katie is refining and formatting the dataset for integration into an interactive web mapping application. This platform will display iNaturalist observations alongside additional spatial data layers generated through the NM BYR Program. By combining community-sourced biodiversity data with structured program information, the project enhances the visibility of urban habitat restoration efforts and promotes broader public understanding of local ecological impact.
The resulting interactive web map will be publicly accessible, allowing community members, educators, and program participants to explore the reach and influence of the NM BYR initiative. Through this fellowship, Katie has been able to apply her Geographic Information Systems (GIS) expertise in direct service to the community, translating technical skills into meaningful civic engagement and environmental stewardship.
“Being a U.N.M. R.H. Mallory Center for Community Geography Fellow has allowed me to use my GIS skills to benefit the community, which is valuable and fulfilling.” - Katie Slack
2024-2025 Applications are now closed.
The program is open to both graduate and undergraduate students from Geography and related fields. Fellows will receive $1500 per semester to pursue community-engaged projects in collaboration with the Center Director, staff, and affiliates. Applicants are welcome to propose potential projects in their application, but proposals are not required. Fellowship assignments are at the discretion of the Center Director and may not necessarily align with specific proposal text. The objective of these fellowships is to help students develop skills in centering community concerns in academic and professional work.
CLICK TO VIEW THE 2024-2025 STUDENT APPLICATION GUIDELINES
For more information, contact the Center at communitygeography@unm.edu.
