Meet TDARFAC’s 2024 Inaugural Award Program Winners
As our planet undergoes rapid changes that are challenging many species’ survival, conservationists around the globe are working to combat the effects climate change is having on the environment.
That’s why the Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation (TDARFAC) created its Awards Program – to support and honor scientists and activists who make exceptional contributions to the field of conservation and the preservation of biodiversity.
Through our inaugural awards program, TDARFAC provides funding to support up-and-coming conservationists who show enormous promise in the field – helping them achieve their career goals while at the same time encouraging them to build a more sustainable future.
Meet this year’s award recipients to learn more about why they were chosen and how their work will benefit from TDARFAC’s funding!
Devoted to Discovery: Women Scientist Conservation Award, $2,500
Eliette Noromalala, Ph.D. student at the University of Texas at Austin studying Anthropology
This inclusive award recognizes the extraordinary and cutting-edge scientific work of women in conservation science, particularly focusing on highlighting the work from females from underrepresented communities in higher education.
Because women constitute only 34 percent of the STEM workforce, it’s important to continuously recognize the impact women have in this field, not only to honor their work but also inspire the next generation of females to explore STEM fields like conservation as viable career options.
Noromalala was nominated by renowned primatologist Dr. Jonah Ratsimbazafy due to her efforts answering key questions regarding infectious diseases in wildlife for the conservation management of endangered lemur species. Along with being a student, she is a cofounder of Natior’Ala, a nature conservation association in Madagascar.
Advocates for Change: Future Conservationist & Activist Award, $2,500
Kuenzang Dorji, Director of Khebeythang Nature Center in association with the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environment Research in Bhutan
This award honors the achievements of early career conversationists and activists in applied conservation.
Dorji was nominated by Dr. Lori Sheeran, professor of anthropology at Central Washington University, due to his work as a skilled research team leader and his role in primate conservation efforts in Bhutan. He is currently enrolled in the University of Calgary’s Anthropology Ph.D. program and is committed to preserving intact ancient forest in his home country of Bhutan.
Dorji was also awarded a 2024 grant from TDARFAC for his project entitled: Revolution in Primate Conservation: A Citizen Science-Based Research and Community -Led Interventions for People and Endangered Gee’s Golden Langur Coexistence in Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot-Bhutan.
Are you interested in applying for TDARFAC’s awards program? Visit our Grant & Awards webpage to learn more about our awards program recognizing promising conservation scientists around the world, which will open for 2025 applicants later this year!
