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Siena Botzer-Gunter, a third-year geoscience major in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, is making her mark as a passionate advocate for sustainability and environmental action. With a focus on climate change and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Botzer-Gunter’s academic journey is fueled by her desire to make a positive impact on both her campus and the world around her.

In April, Botzer-Gunter received the prestigious academic designation of University Scholar for the Schmidt College of Science. As a top-performing undergraduate who demonstrated outstanding academic excellence, she received the award during �鶹Ů��’s annual Honors Convocation ceremony.

“I am filled with gratitude for the professors, friends and family who supported me and made this award possible,” expressed Botzer-Gunter. “For me, this recognition is an inspiration to continue to grow and make a positive impact in my community and environment.”

Botzer-Gunter’s leadership continues beyond the classroom. She serves as the sustainability director of Florida Atlantic’s Student Government (SG), where she works to connect the student body with sustainability initiatives across campus. In addition, she also holds the position as president of the Sustainability Club. She organizes impactful events like turtle excavations, tree plantings, dune restoration projects, beach cleanups and clothing drives that foster environmental stewardship among students.

“I am very passionate about finding sustainable ways of living and inspiring others through volunteering with my community and school organizations,” stated Botzer-Gunter.

Off campus, Botzer-Gunter is equally committed to driving change in the surrounding community. She works as a sustainability intern for the city manager of Boca Raton, where she assists with sustainability action plans and community events. She also interns at Community Greening, an urban forestry nonprofit, where she helps conduct tree plantings and nursery events to boost canopy coverage in South Florida. She also makes time to volunteer for multiple regional conservation projects and environmental initiatives to improve South Florida’s coastal resilience.

Her unwavering dedication and impressive academic accomplishments are garnering attention. The university’s SG recognized Botzer-Gunter’s numerous outreach achievements in 2026 with its Commitment to Service Award. As a high-achieving undergraduate learner, she was named a WLW-ECOS Student Success Scholar.

“The WLW-ECOS Student Success Scholarship has allowed me to focus on my education and personal growth,” shared Botzer-Gunter. “Beyond the financial support, this scholarship has reminded me that there are people who believe in my potential and that motivates me to continue perusing my passions and working hard to create a positive change.”

Following her anticipated graduation in December 2027, Botzer-Gunter intends to become a sustainability director in the nonprofit or public sector. She hopes to pursue a career in sustainability and conservation, where she can continue inspiring others and shaping a more environmentally conscious future.