About the the David Soules Conservation Memorial Scholarship
“David cared deeply for the natural places and things unique to Southern New Mexico. He spent countless hours learning the history of his home, and sharing his knowledge with others.He was committed to protecting and preserving that history and heritage for us all. I am honored that Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project has seen fit to memorialize his vision with this scholarship, and grateful his memory will be honored in such a fitting way,"
- Nacy Soules, wife of David Soules
Congratulations to the 2025 Scholarship Recipients!
Anissa Mahkee
Currently Studying: Criminal Justice, Minor: Range Science, GIS
About Anissa: Raised in Zuni Pueblo, Anissa Mahkee developed an enduring appreciation for the natural world and a deep-rooted connection to the land. Currently studying Criminal Justice with concentrations in Range Science and GIS, she aspires to design innovative systems that empower Native communities with the tools and resources necessary to manage and protect their lands. Her goal is to foster a harmonious approach to conservation that integrates cutting-edge solutions with respect for cultural heritage, ensuring both advancement and preservation for generations to come. Through her work, she strives to empower Native communities and safeguard the landscapes that have profoundly shaped her life and vision.
"Growing up as a Native kid, the land was my world. I didn’t see borders between a reservation, a town, or a city. As I got older, I came to understand the deep contrasts, not just in geography, but in opportunity, resources, and the way people viewed the land they lived on. Back home in Zuni Pueblo, land is more than just scenery, it is life itself. The red clay dirt beneath my feet holds stories of my ancestors. Rivers, streams, and springs slowly flow, whispering lessons older than any textbook. The same vast sky seen above holds a special memory and a quiet bridge between the past and present.
I also grew up witnessing a painful reality, the land and resources given by Earth are at risk of uncertainty. Climate change, water rights, drought, policy decisions, wildfires, and mismanagement—the challenges are endless, leaving deep scars on the landscapes. I listened as elders spoke of how the crop fields were larger, how they swam in the clearest waters, how animal habitats thrived, and how seasons were once more predictable. Their words were forewarnings, slowly unfolding as I began to understand.”
Albert Opare Agyei
Currently Studying: Masters of Applied Geography
About Albert: Albert Opare Agyei is a current graduate student in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at New Mexico State University. His overarching research goal is to utilize geospatial techniques to help make water resources sustainable and accessible. Agyei’s academic journey has been shaped by the curiosity about the intersection of geography, technology, and environmental sustainability. Beyond academics, he enjoys playing soccer, hiking, photography and exploring the world.
"Growing up in Ghana, my entire community struggled to access water for daily necessities like cooking and washing. This challenge sparked my interest in water resources management, a field with significant socio-economic and environmental implications. Witnessing firsthand how water availability affects communities deepened my commitment to finding solutions. This experience has fueled my passion for studying the depths and the intricacies of water resource conservation and management. I firmly believe that effective conservation strategies must be rooted in data-driven decision-making, which is why I am dedicated to utilizing geospatial science to develop innovative solutions for water-related issues.
My passion for water conservation is driven by the understanding that water is not just a resource but a lifeline for ecosystems and communities. Climate change, population growth, and unsustainable land-use practices continue to threaten water security, making it imperative to develop innovative approaches to conservation. Through my work, I aim to contribute to solutions that enhance water resilience, promote sustainable land management, and support biodiversity conservation."