In June of 2026, Salve Regina University launched a new research program in partnership with the Norman Bird Sanctuary: the Kiernan Scholars program. The intensive five-week program places Salve Regina undergraduate researchers directly in the field at the sanctuary. Working alongside sanctuary staff, students will be involved in every stage of ecological research, from data collection to analysis and public presentations. Research includes avian science and bird banding, habitat restoration and land management, wildlife monitoring and water quality assessment, generating baseline data used to track ecosystem health and inform stewardship efforts across Rhode Island habitats. It is supported by a four-year grant from the Eaddo and Peter Kiernan Foundation.
