College of Charleston Student Named NOAA Hollings Scholar

College of Charleston sophomore Madigail Jozic has been named a 2026–28 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ernest F. Hollings scholar. The program expands undergraduate training in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, strengthens environmental literacy and prepares students for public service and education careers in natural resource and science workforce.

A marine biology major from Bluffton, South Carolina, Jozic was interested in the scholarship program because of her lifelong passion for the ocean and desire to contribute to marine research and conservation. This semester she conducted research on Caribbean sponge species with the assistance of Chris Freeman, assistant professor of biology. This summer, she plans to continue conducting research on oyster reef ecosystems in the Lowcountry. 

“This introduction to scientific research will provide Maddie with valuable experience to later select a NOAA-funded research project,” says Gorka Sancho, professor of biology and Jozic’s marine biology advisor. “The combination of both research opportunities will provide Maddie with ample undergraduate research experiences and allow her to better choose a research path as a marine scientist after graduation, as well make her a more competitive candidate when applying to top graduate school programs.”

Award Helps Shape Careers

After graduating from the College of Charleston, Jozic plans to attend graduate school to earn a doctoral degree in marine biology.

“To me, this award represents the value of hard work, persistence and dedication. It serves as a transformative bridge between being a student and my goal of becoming a scientist dedicated to public education and marine conservation,” says Jovic. “The opportunities provided through this program will extend beyond my undergraduate years and play a critical role in shaping my future career.”

The NOAA Hollings program was named after Senator Ernest “Fritz” Hollings of South Carolina, who was a champion for ocean policy and conservation. When Senator Hollings retired in 2005, the Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship was established in his honor to bolster undergraduate training in NOAA mission sciences, as well as increase environmental literacy. The program provides scholars with awards that include academic assistance (up to $9,500 per year) for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid ($700/week) internship at a NOAA facility during the summer.

“We are very proud of Maddie for winning this extremely competitive award and are excited about the opportunities it provides her as she pursues a career in marine conservation,” says Jesslyn Collins-Frohlich, director of the College of Charleston Office of Nationally Competitive Awards, which helps students find and apply for awards that support their studies, research projects, learning new languages and studying abroad.