Dr. Jennifer Jurado has been recognized as a “Champion of Change” by the Obama administration. Jennifer, who is the director of the Natural Resources Planning and Management Division in Broward County, was one of 12 people nationwide nominated for this honor. She was recognized by the White House as a ‘Climate Resilience Leader’ for her efforts in South Florida. 
Jennifer began doing research with Professor Gary Hitchcock while an undergraduate, and went on to complete her Ph.D. on Harmful Algal Blooms in his laboratory. In 2012, Jurado was recognized by the Florida Engineering Society – Broward County Chapter for Outstanding Service to the Profession. More recently, she has played a key role in the adoption of a four-county South Florida Regional Climate Change Compact and in the formulation of a Regional Climate Action Plan. Jennifer also helped to launch a multi-county initiative to address sea level rise and other regional consequences of climate change.
Congratulations to Jennifer for truly making a difference!