SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Environmental Management and Resilience Capstones
The following capstone projects are examples of the work conducted by students in the John Lewis Public Administration Program. Please visit the Center for Applied Research website to learn more about working with our students.
Strengthening Oversight of Wastewater Assimilation in Louisiana’s Wetlands
Author: LaRhonda Chatman
Host: Pontchartrain Conservancy
Description: This project, completed in partnership with the Pontchartrain Conservancy, examined the ecological impacts of Louisiana’s municipal wastewater assimilation practices and proposed strategic recommendations—including multi-agency oversight and long-term monitoring—to safeguard wetland health and resilience.
Climate Advocacy
Author: Claire Reifscheider
Host: Greater New Orleans Interfaith Climate Coalition (“Coalition")
Term: Spring 2026
Description: In the wake of a state-level restriction on certain types of air pollution monitors, the Coalition wanted to advocate for the ability of residents to monitor air pollution and communicate with each other about their local monitoring efforts. This project provided recommendations on engaging with community partners to advance the Coalition’s efforts.
