Erin Gray is a third year undergraduate student in the Environmental Hydrology program within the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences. As a returning student, Erin strives to maintain a balance between scholastic success and extracurricular commitments. She is the president of her Ultimate Frisbee team and works to improve outreach to women in the Tucson Ultimate community.
As a freshman, Erin was active with Engineers Without Borders and worked to raise funds for the installation of improved showers and latrines to address sanitation issues in a Marquirivi, Bolivia. In her sophomore year, Erin served on the Green Fund Committee, an elected group of students dedicated to the advancement of sustainable practices and projects on campus through the annual allocation of $400,000 in grants. Her work with EWB and the Green Fund have given Erin an appreciation for the many student led outreach efforts that take place on campus.
At the WRRC, Erin is the student assistant for Arizona Project WET, which works to increase water stewardship through the promotion of relevant STEM instruction in classrooms throughout the state. In her work with APW, Erin has had a chance to visit effluent treatment centers, interact with Tucson Water hydrologists, and explore Tucson’s unique groundwater recharge facilities.
In addition to her work with APW, Erin assists Dr. Jen McIntosh in investigating the isotopic chemistry in the Cienega Creek Watershed. The experience with field collection methods as well as sample processing and analysis will be valuable tools as Erin prepares to enter the workforce as a hydrologist focused on restoration and conservation after her expected graduation in December, 2017.