Rebecca Fuchs '26

Research Project

Supporting the Use of Traditional Indigenous Foods in Child Nutrition Programs 

Bio

Rebecca Fuchs '26 (She/They) is from Rockville, Maryland, and has been passionate about environmental conservation since high school, where they became involved in local activism. As a junior transfer student at William & Mary, Rebecca is pursuing a major in Public Policy or Economics with a minor in Environmental Science and Sustainability. Their academic focus includes environmental justice, habitat restoration, and the role of business in advancing sustainability through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.

Rebecca has explored the impact of policy on conservation, including studying the ""plastic bag tax"" in Montgomery County, MD, and its potential to drive positive environmental change. At Montgomery College, they organized a campus beautification initiative, gaining experience in data analysis, event planning, and marketing. As a member of the Student Sustainability Council at William & Mary, Rebecca continues to advocate for community-driven environmental solutions.

Through the IIC Year-Long Research Program, Rebecca will explore how Indigenous food practices can support child nutrition programs while promoting sustainability. After graduation, Rebecca aims to pursue a career in environmental policy or sustainable development, combining research, policy, and conservation efforts.