Environmental Science Major Selena McCrear Leaves Sustainable Mark at FAMU
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Selena McCrear took her final steps as an undergraduate, the environmental science major and clarinet player spent the past four years not only earning her degree but also paving the way for future generations to engage in sustainability practices.
McCrear’s journey began in Atlanta, Georgia, where she was raised in a household that championed environmental awareness. It was during her junior year of high school that the realities of climate change began to resonate deeply within her.
“My parents instilled in me the value of sustainability early on. We recycled, discussed solar panels, and even considered getting a Tesla,” she recalls with a smile. “Seeing the news and issues surrounding climate change made me realize that sustainability was not just a trend; it was a necessity, and I realized that I wanted to be part of the solution, and that’s what pushed me to pursue environmental science.”
At FAMU, McCrear found her niche, inspired not only by professors and peers but also by her experiences as a sustainability ambassador with Atlanta’s Mayor’s Office of Resilience. Her work focused on pressing issues such as food waste and water conservation, which helped her understand the depth of environmental matters.
At FAMU, Selena McCrear found her niche and her step. (Photo special to FAMU)
Her academic excellence was further recognized when she received the USDA 1890 Scholarship, a prestigious full-ride opportunity that covered her tuition, housing, and additional expenses.
This scholarship, she notes, changed her life, allowing her to immerse herself fully in her studies. A proud incoming 2022 freshman, she is pleased that she completed her studies a semester ahead of schedule.
But McCrear’s contributions are not confined to the classroom. As a clarinet player in the Marching 100, she has woven together her passion for music and the arts with her dedication to environmentalism.
"Joining the Marching 100 was a dream come true,” Selena shares. “I had always played in concert bands, but never had the experience of marching. It was a challenge, but the camaraderie and family environment within the band helped me thrive.”
Over her three years with the Marching 100, McCrear blossomed. Last year, she became a section leader. She said that the team spirit and resilience taught her not only the value of hard work but also how to celebrate the diverse talents and backgrounds of her team.
Selena McCrear says FAMU taugher her endurance and resilience. (Photo special to FAMU)
McCrear’s academic and extracurricular journey culminated in a significant milestone: her presentation at the HBCU Climate Change Conference, where she won third place for her research on building a sustainable FAMU through recycling and food waste initiatives.
“That was definitely a highlight,” she beams. “It felt great to share ideas and connect with others who are just as passionate about making a change.”
Now that she has graduated, McCrear has her sights set on a future that melds her two passions.
“I’m looking to pursue grad school, specifically a sustainability program,” she states. “Columbia’s HBCU Fellowship Program is on my radar because I want to further my education without accumulating debt.”
In the spirit of gratitude, she acknowledges the community that has supported her along this journey.
“FAMU has taught me endurance and resilience,” she says. “I encourage upcoming students to find their communities, whether in environmental science or music, and to embrace every opportunity. There are many paths you can take within this field, and it’s up to us to shape the future.”
McCrear is destined to leave her mark on the world, one sustainable step at a time.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
Christina Compere-Minor
Digital + Social Media Manager
Christina1.compere@famu.edu
