Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP) Board of Directors are pleased to announce two recipients of the 2025 PEP Science and Technology Scholarship. This scholarship was established to support employees of PEP member companies and their dependents. It allows PEP to invest in and support educational opportunities in the fields of engineering and environmental sciences to expose students to critical environmental issues involving the Gulf Coast.
Kadence “Kali” Johnston, University of South Alabama
Major: Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
Ethan Engert, University of Florida
Major: Natural Resource Conservation
Kadence “Kali” Johnston is a dedicated scholar graduating early with honors from the University of South Alabama in the field of Environmental Sciences and Sustainability with a focus on environmental law. Kali is passionate about the intersection of environmental policy and social justice. As a National Academy Gulf Scholar, Kali researched how policy can protect fragile Gulf Coast ecosystems while supporting coastal communities. Through leadership roles with Green Jags, Alpha Gamma Delta, and campus sustainability initiatives, Kali has combined service and advocacy to address environmental inequality. With plans to pursue law school, Kali aspires to become an environmental lawyer who advances equitable protections and uplifts communities most impacted by environmental harm. Kali’s father is Kenneth Johnston, a safety professional at G. A. West.
Ethan Engert is an aspiring conservationist with a lifelong passion for protecting wildlife and ecosystems. Growing up on the Gulf Coast, he witnessed rapid habitat loss, which fueled his commitment to natural resource conservation. Ethan is pursuing this field to restore degraded habitats, bring land into conservation, and inspire greater public connection to the environment. Known for being friendly, collaborative, and hands-on, he quickly grasps complex ecological systems and enjoys sharing his knowledge. Beyond conservation, Ethan’s interests include art, hiking, and travel. Ethan’s father is Ryan Engert, an employee of Evonik.
Are you interested in applying for the PEP Scholarship? The application process will open on December 1, 2025.
Each year, PEP will award two $2500 individual scholarships to students who meet the scholarship criteria and are enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university pursuing a degree or advanced degree in:
PEP believes that successful business and community quality of life are dependent on innovation and an understanding and respect for our coastal environments and natural resources. To that end, PEP seeks to invest in and support educational opportunities in the engineering and environmental sciences to expose students to critical issues involving the Gulf Coast, encourage innovation in the work place, and promote further improvements of best practices that have a positive impact on our environment and resources. Local internships with our members and partners may be available to scholarship recipients. Scholarship recipients are welcome and encouraged to attend PEP events and meet experienced leaders in their fields, further encouraging the best and the brightest in these fields to remain as vital members of our Gulf Coast economy.
The Community Foundation will administer and select the recipients of the scholarships based on criteria established by the PEP Board of Directors.