Fresh Water Institute Fellowship
The Fresh Water Institute Fellowship Program invites passionate 10th and 11th grade students from Cuyahoga County to apply. We’re seeking curious minds from all backgrounds who are committed to environmental issues, ready to make a difference, and willing to become an environmental leader!
Program Overview
Cuyahoga County, in partnership with Teaching Place and Syatt, is embarking on a new and exciting initiative called the Fresh Water Institute (FWI) Fellowship Program. The FWI Fellowship Program is an interdisciplinary, two-year program designed for Northeast Ohio area high school students to delve into the critical importance of Lake Erie and the Great Lakes to our region. Through rigorous summer field research and capstone projects, fellows will develop a comprehensive understanding of the water cycle, its impact on our communities, and the complex environmental and social issues surrounding this essential resource.
We are looking for 10th and 11th graders who are curious and passionate about environmental issues in their community. All academic backgrounds are welcome! We want team players who are interested in meeting others from around Cuyahoga County and who bring diverse perspectives.
In the first year, Fellows will participate in engaging and educational activities connecting them to the area’s freshwater resources and issues. The “home site” for the experience is the Foundry in the Flats. Their experience will culminate in a week-long intensive summer program during which they will be able to explore firsthand the issues related to the urban water cycle, the Great Lakes, and how those natural resources are being cared for by individuals and organizations.
If Fellows opt to continue in the program for a second year, they will participate in
internships to learn firsthand about careers focused on the region’s freshwater sustainability initiatives and policies. Fellows will receive a stipend for their time and participation in both years.
Application Details
Who Are We Looking For?
- Rising 10th & 11th graders
- Curious and passionate students
- Students from any academic background
- Participants committed to environmental issues
- Team players ready to make new friends
- Diverse voices from across Cuyahoga County
Program Highlights
- In-person & virtual sessions: design, explore, collaborate, plan, experiment, and present- where learning and fun go hand in hand
- Monthly sessions during the school year
- Summer 2026 Immersion Week
Why Join?
- Enhance your leadership skills and become a freshwater expert.
- Develop and execute impactful community action plans.
- Field excursions and immersive experiences around Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River.
- Gain insights from various experts, including scientists, community leaders, policymakers, and industry professionals.
- Receive a stipend for your participation.
- Enjoy complimentary swag, supplies, and meals.
Next Steps
- Applications will be released in late August/early September.
- Completing the interest form linked above is the surest way to receive the application materials when they are ready.
Program Background
Three Pillars
- Education and Research: The FWI will inspire learners and explorers to understand the environmental impact of our waterways. Fellows will learn the importance of the Great Lakes and gain exposure to freshwater career opportunities.
- Advocacy and Access: The government’s role in protecting our natural resources is critical.
- Economic Development: The FWI will focus on creating a blueprint to attract freshwater-dependent industries to Cuyahoga County and create water-focused jobs to boost our economy and workforce.
Who We Are
- Syatt (See You at the Top) is a family-founded nonprofit whose mission is to to support its community through culturally relevant programming in the natural and built environment.
- Teaching Cleveland (Teaching Place) is a teacher-founded nonprofit whose mission is to cultivate powerful connections between people and their place, inspiring them to contribute in ways that drive civic, economic, environmental, and social impact.
- Together, we are the Education & Research branch of the Fresh Water Institute. We are thrilled to partner with Cuyahoga County to bring this institute to bright and motivated students in our local area.
This program has mainly taught me the value of the Great Lakes, and I can honestly see myself contributing to the movement of preserving water.
~ 2024/25 Cohort Participant
