BUEI Awards Bursary To D’Angele Symonds
The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] presented a $10,000 bursary to D’Angele Symonds.
A spokesperson said, “In honour of Teddy Tucker’s centennial year, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] Board of Directors is pleased to present a special one-time only bursary in the amount of $10,000 to Miss D’Angele Symonds.
“Teddy, an ocean advocate and one of Bermuda’s early underwater explorers, was a Founding Trustee of BUEI and would have turned 100 on May 8th. Many of the most precious artefacts Teddy recovered from shipwrecks around Bermuda’s ‘golden ring’ of coral reefs are proudly displayed in the Teddy Tucker Shipwreck Gallery at BUEI, which is a true testimony to his legacy and our island’s extensive maritime heritage.
“D’Angele is entering her final year of studies for a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Physical Geography at Keele University in the UK with plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Geology Engineering. These fascinating environmental science subjects are closely related to BUEI and Bermuda’s natural history. What makes this award even more special is that D’Angele credits her participation in BUEI’s Youth Climate Summit [YCS] as the catalyst for her choice of academic and career goals.”
Ms Symonds stated, “YCS was my first relevant exposure to environmental sciences in a professional setting, engaging with the local community, global youth activists and subject matter experts. I remember thinking ‘I can do this for a living!’ Through YCS, I collaborated with like-minded students and NGOs equally committed to protecting Bermuda’s environment. YCS was my first experience applying what I had learned in a real-world context. The transition from learning to doing was almost immediate, and I gained an understanding of how much my actions can make a difference to our environment.”
BUEI’s Chair of the Board, Mr. Alan Gilbertson, said “D’Angele has been interning at BUEI throughout this summer and was nominated for this special centennial award by her managers. After meeting this phenomenal young lady and learning of the impact BUEI had on her educational experiences, it was evident that she was an ideal nominee for this special award. D’Angele is a well-rounded and composed individual who is driven and committed to excelling in her studies. She has made meaningful contributions to BUEI’s visitor services and education departments during her internship, and there is definitely a bright future ahead for her. On behalf of BUEI’s Board of Directors, Management and staff, I wish D’Angele all the best with her future endeavours and look forward to celebrating her successes.“
Ms. Wendy Tucker, Teddy’s daughter and Honorary Member of BUEI, added, “My parents loved the ocean. They were also advocates for education and provided numerous opportunities for generations of Bermuda’s youth to learn about the sea, develop an appreciation for the marine environment and go forward with the knowledge to protect our ocean. I am delighted that BUEI’s Board of Directors have chosen to recognise my father’s contributions to BUEI and celebrate his centennial by making this generous award to D’Angele. BUEI was an influence on D’Angele, which made it clear to me that she is a perfect candidate for this special award. Not only would my parents have been pleased to support D’Angele’s development and university studies, but I am as well.”
After being surprised with the award at a private presentation held at BUEI last week, Ms Symonds said “I would like to thank BUEI, Mr. Gilbertson, Ms. Tucker and my mangers for nominating me for this very special award. It was a complete surprise and I am truly grateful for the support system I have gained through BUEI. They believe in my vision of furthering my education in Engineering Geology, and I’m not sure I can say thank you enough for encouragement. As I enter my last year at Keele University, the Teddy Tucker centennial bursary motivates me to continue striving for academic excellence. I would also like to thank my family for their continuing support.“
A spokesperson added, “BUEI, now in its 28th year of service to the community, is a pillar for ocean literacy and environmental education. Together, in partnership with stakeholders across the island and beyond Bermuda’s shores, we are developing ocean advocates and inspiring environmental stewardship. Visit BUEI.org/education to learn more about our programmes and impact. We welcome everyone to connect, explore, discover and inspire.”
