Hello! I am a junior in Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service studying Science, Technology, and international affairs with a minor in Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Studies.
As a Laidlaw scholar, I am working under the Atmos Jones Lab guided by Dr. Taylor Jones. My research utilizes ECOSTRESS data from the international space station and the Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software to map average evapotranspiration rates and land surface temperatures in Washington, DC neighborhoods. The objective of this research is to understand how local DC communities can utilize ECOSTRESS data to combat extreme heat days.
Outside of Laidlaw, I am an implementation team member for the Global Governance Strategy for Planetary Health under the Helm Lab at Georgetown University. My research is focused on the role of the Commission of Small Island States on Climate change and International Law (COSIS) in reducing international law fragmentation.
In my free time I love spending time at the beach and exploring new places. I am an avid scuba diver and have had the opportunity to dive in 7 countries all over the Caribbean.
Please feel free to reach out to me here or at fc689@georgetown.edu !
Hello! I recently graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology Research from the University of Toronto. I’m passionate about youth mental health and how humour can be used to support resilience after adversity.
My Summer 1 research project explored the relationship between childhood adversity, aggression, and self-regulation — deepening my understanding of the psychological impacts of early trauma.
In Summer 2, I led a Leadership-in-Action project at SOS Children’s Villages in Cape Town, where I designed and facilitated a comedy-based mental health program for teens.
That experience led me to found HaHaHelps — an organization that uses improv comedy to support youth mental health through accessible, community-led workshops. I'm currently piloting the full program in South Africa, with plans to expand to more communities globally.
Please feel free to connect :)
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/younessrobert-tahiri
Email: youness@hahahelps.org
Colleen Dougherty
Assistant Director, Center for Research & Fellowships, Georgetown University
Colleen manages the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme at Georgetown University. Through her work, Colleen aims to increase accessibility in fellowships advising for all Georgetown students with a special focus on reflective practices intended to help students identify and develop personal and career goals. Prior to joining Georgetown University, Colleen served as the Assistant Director for Early Career Initiatives with NASPA- Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, where she managed professional development programs for undergraduate student, graduate student, and new professional members. Colleen holds a master’s degree in Student Development in Higher Education from the University of Maine and bachelor’s degrees in Women and Gender Studies and Anthropology from the University of Delaware.