A biology graduate is the recipient of the inaugural Bermuda Zoological Society Steinhoff Scholarship.

The $10,000 scholarship was launched this year to assist young Bermudians in environmental-related careers.

Alexandria Tatem, 25, a graduate of Dalhousie University, Halifax, hopes to pass on her love of the environment to youngsters as a science teacher.

"I am honoured to be the first recipient of the Bermuda Zoological Society's Steinhoff Scholarship," she said.

"It is especially rewarding to be associated with an organisation that has the same desires and passion for conservation. I am also very thankful for the financial assistance this will provide for me to continue my education."

Miss Tatem plans to attend the University of Western Ontario in Canada this Fall to pursue a Bachelor of Education degree.

"I hope to return to Bermuda to share my enthusiasm for science," she said. "Our Island's ecosystem is very precious and I believe education is the key to conserving it."

The former Mount Saint Agnes Academy student graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree two years ago. She has since worked at Dolphin Quest as an intern coordinator and in mentoring college students interested in marine mammal training.

The BZS Steinhoff Scholarship is funded by former Society President Robert Steinhoff, and is thought to be the first of its kind in the field of the environment in Bermuda.

"My family and I wanted to create a scholarship of this kind in Bermuda to encourage and nurture environmental stewards for the future of the Island," said Mr. Steinhoff.

"There is obviously a great need for it, and we hope to help budding conservationists like Alexandria to achieve their career paths."

Current BZS President Bill Scott said: "BZS is very proud to have been able to launch this much-needed scholarship and we are very appreciative of the support and encouragement for the concept from our former President, Bob Steinhoff."