Each year Timpro CT awards two $500 scholarships to graduating seniors who plan to attend a two- or four-year institute of higher education in the field of natural resources. We are pleased to announce this year’s recipients,  Faith Kalisz and Aaron Rich.

In addition to these  brief biographies, you can read more and see pictures  in the 2026 Summer Timpro newsletter posted under Resources on this website.

Faith Kalisz, a graduate of Nathan Hale-Ray High School, has enrolled at St. Anselm College. She has an extensive background in ecology working with her mentor Harry Yamalis, Environmental Analyst #3, Land & Water Resources,Division Bureau of Water Protection & Land Reuse, CT-DEEP. Personally influential are the trips she’s taken up north to Maine where the woods really impressed her. “Acadia National Park changed my perspective,” she said. “I didn’t realizehow extensive the forest is. But the defining moment for me came at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina watchingwildlife management specialists rehabilitate injured black bears. “Their dedication demonstrated that informed,responsible involvement can restore balance and protect both wildlife and the landscapes they depend on.”

Aaron Rich, a graduate of Lyman Hall High School, attends the University of Rhode Island. In fact, he first encountered marine ecosystems long ago at his grandparents’ beach house in Narragansett. He has helped catch and band Canada geese for the CT-DEEP. Recreational fishing has also been a big influence. In addition, thanks to his father who teaches woodshop at Lyman Hall, he has hands-on experience. Working both at home and in class, Aaron has made Adirondack chairs, tables, chess boards, and cutting boards. “I developed a profound respect for wood as a versatile, beautiful, renewable resource. These dual influences have shaped my long-term career goal: to bridge the gap between resource conservation and the timber industry.”