The Swampscott Conservancy awarded two environmental scholarships to graduating seniors this year.

The Swampscott Conservancy’s Environmental Focus Award program supports young leaders pursuing studies in environmental and related fields. Hazel Hitchcock received $1,000, and Miquelle (Scout) Myers-Smith was awarded $500. The scholarships were made possible by the Spellios family as well as Nelson Darling’s family according to Toni Bandrowicz, the Conservancy president

Hitchcock has explored global environmental challenges through coursework, advocacy and volunteer work. She has also focused on public policy solutions aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.

“We are confident that she will carry her commitment to protecting and improving our natural environment in her higher education and beyond,” Bandrowicz said.

Hitchcock is also a NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador, a role that Bandrowicz said has helped her develop leadership skills in ocean conservation, climate and ocean literacy, project management and community outreach.

“Of all the applicants, the Conservancy’s Scholarship Committee felt that she stood out for her commitment to the environment, as evidenced by her involvement in the High School’s Environmental Club, the town’s Climate Action and Resilience Committee, as well as the Swampscott Conservancy,” said Bandrowicz.

Myers-Smith plans to study environmental issues in college, according to Bandrowicz. She has also been actively involved in Girl Scouts, including work in a Silver Award project to clean a local pond. Myers-Smith also has participated in a youth climate organization directed by the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and she was a member of the environmental club at Swampscott High School.

“The Conservancy believes in encouraging and supporting graduating students like Hazel and Scout who will be the future stewards of our planet,” Bandrowicz told the Swampscott Tides.