Hi all! My name is Elijah Bennett, and I’m a passionate Atmospheric Science major at the University of North Carolina at Asheville, with a concentration in Climatology. I also want to help diversify the field of meteorology and climate science!

Beyond my academics, I also serve as a student leader for Sankofa, a cultural organization that supports and uplifts BIPOC students on campus. Through Sankofa, I want to create spaces of belonging and empowerment, especially for students of color who often feel “unseen” or “isolated” on campus.

Unfortunately, I’ve run into financial obstacles this year. While I’ve been covering my education through loans, I am unable to secure one for this fall due to not having a cosigner. I’ve exhausted all options, I have been working hard all summer to fight for my education, and I am now turning to this GoFundMe in hopes of raising $2,000 to help me stay enrolled this semester.

Weather and climate have always been my passion. I don’t want a financial barrier to be the reason I step away from the education I’ve worked so hard for.

Anything you can give would truly mean the world to me. Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting my journey.