A fundraising campaign was launched this year with major contributions received from several companies. Contributors at the President’s Circle level are Environmental Solutions Group and McNeilus. Contributors at the Platinum level are the Detachable Containers Association and Waste Management, Inc. The Gold level contributor is Republic Services and the Silver level is Advanced Disposal Services. We thank our member companies for their generous support of the Women’s Council Scholarship program. The recipients will be recognized at the 2018 Waste Expo. The recipients are:
Andy Phomparkdy, Elk Grove, CA
Employee – Aria Energy
Andy Phomparkdy is employed by Aria Energy Systems as Western Regional Manager in Elk Grove, California. Andy is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the American Public University. Although Andy is a US citizen, his journey included growing up in a Thailand refugee camp. He has always been interested in science and upon high school graduation joined the US Army and served during Desert Storm. Since his honorable discharge he has worked with Aria Energy committed to all aspects of landfill gas to energy. He demonstrates his family commitment as a father and husband but also assuring his late sister’s young children and mother have a home. Andy demonstrates remarkable enthusiasm towards pursuing his studies and career serving our industry.
Ashley Somers, Rutland, VT
Employee – Casella Waste Systems
Ashley Somers, is employed by Casella Waste Systems, in Rutland, Vermont in their Marketing Department. Ashley is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Marketing with a concentration in new media and communications and maintains a 4.0 GPA. She already demonstrates her dedication to volunteerism with providing support to Vermonters in Wheels for Warmth, and Cradles to Crayons. She has participated in MassRecycle, helping to implement a program designed to drive social change for recycling by creating and installing special kiosks at subway stations throughout Boston. Ashley’s strong commitment and vitality has been recognized by Casella, recently being selected to participate in Casella’s Peak Performance Leadership Training program. Ashley clearly demonstrates her passion and excellence in everything she does.
Elizabeth Rainville, Milwaukie, OR
Dependent – Recology
Elizabeth Rainville from Milwaukie, Oregon attends George Fox University studying civil engineering. Her strong academic achievements (past Valedictorian in high school) and her community service with groups including local Food Banks and shelters, showcase her dedication towards helping others. She intends to “service the world community with her studies including a strong dedication to sustainability and engineering waste management systems.” Elizabeth has developed a passionate commitment to the environment and “sees the waste and recycling industry a career doing good for the environment, the economy and the soul.”
Juliet Varga, San Leandro, CA
Dependent – Waste Management, Inc.
Juliet Varga is a graduating high school senior, from San Leandro, California who plans on attending the University of California to study psychology and communications. Her strong academic achievements and her passion to help change behavior in support of caring for the environment is evident from her involvement with local community groups. She shared some of her experiences with “strong and compassionate leaders in the industry” and welcomes the opportunity to help support improvements in recycling behavior. Juliet is the first Hispanic women in her family to attend college and she is passionate about her future contributions to our industry.
Selena McBride, Antioch, CA
Employee – Republic Services
Selena McBride is employed by Republic Services as a billing processor in Antioch, California. Selena is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with an Associates of Arts in Business Fundamentals at the University of Phoenix. Selena is a dedicated employee and is working towards a Staff Accountant position. She hopes the degree will help her achieve her goal. Selena is also a person with a huge heart evidenced by fostering four children in addition to her own child. Selena’s colleagues have recognized her hard work and dedication to the industry and her family.
For more information, visit www.wasterecycling.org.