Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation

Fellowship Year: 2009

Academic Background: University of Southern Maine - Ph.D. - (Public Policy (Specializing in Environmental Policy))

Brenda Zollitsch is a PhD candidate in the Public Policy Doctoral Program at USM’s Muskie School of Public Service, studying environmental policy. She is specifically interested in inter-jurisdictional water pollution issues and collaborative environmental management. Her dissertation research focuses on the growing issue of nonpoint source pollution and the trend towards collaborative implementation of stormwater policy in the United States. She is currently studying interorganizational groups nationwide working to address EPA’s stormwater regulatory requirements, investigating whether these collaborations go through a series of predictable life cycle stages. Her findings will inform the work of collaborative groups, their partners, regulators, and an array of stakeholders. In addition to her doctoral work, Brenda serves as a consultant to numerous collaborative environmental groups in the region that are “joining up” to address challenging water pollution issues. She works as a facilitator, strategic planner, grant writer and manages numerous projects. She has more than 12 years of professional experience in leadership positions, including as an executive director of a nonprofit foundation. Brenda holds her interdisciplinary Master’s degree from Boston University in Environmental Resource Management and International Relations. Her bachelor's degree is from the University of Maine, where she graduated With Highest Distinction and Phi Beta Kappa. Following completion of her doctorate, Brenda plans to pursue a career in higher education that will allow her to teach environmental policy, research transboundary water pollution issues, and assist practitioners working to address environmental issues collaboratively.

Expertise: Environmental Policy & Law