Partner Organizations
Partner Organizations
Knowledge Impact Network: Plastic in Humans Circle
The Plastic in Humans Circle is an international working group within the Knowledge Impact Network focused on understanding and addressing the health impacts of plastics and microplastics. The circle brings together researchers, innovators, and policy leaders to share insights, accelerate awareness, and support the development of scalable solutions for plastic removal and prevention.
NVMAA is recognized and partnered with this circle, contributing youth-led research and participating in high-level expert discussions. Through this collaboration, we have presented alongside global professors, CEOs, and scientific leaders, helping amplify the urgency of microplastic issues and supporting efforts toward healthier environmental and human outcomes.
We are incredibly proud and honored to have been recognized as Next-Gen Solution Builders by the Knowledge Impact Network this July. Being highlighted for our youth-led leadership in microplastic advocacy was a meaningful milestone for NVMAA and a powerful affirmation of the work we are doing. During the KIN Lightning Round on plastics, we had the opportunity to share our mission with global experts and introduce NVMAA as a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to community education, scientific research, and environmental action. This recognition reinforced our belief in the impact young people can have on global challenges, and it strengthened our commitment to inspiring others, building community efforts, and driving forward innovative solutions to microplastic pollution.
Georgetown University
Georgetown University is a leading global institution known for its programs in public policy, international relations, technology management, and global development. Its faculty and research centers play an active role in shaping conversations around governance, emerging technologies, and worldwide environmental challenges.
NVMAA is supported and endorsed by Dr. Sarah McCue, a Georgetown University faculty member whose mentorship strengthens our work at the intersection of global governance, communication strategy, and policy-relevant microplastic research. Her guidance has elevated our academic rigor and expanded our international engagement, contributing to NVMAA’s involvement in United Nations and World Bank–aligned initiatives and connecting our student-led research to high-level environmental and policy communities.
Dr. Sarah McCue is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s Technology and AI Management Programs and a seasoned leader in global technology, development, and governance. She has served the United Nations in senior advisory roles, including leading the United Nations Development Program’s Technology for Development practice and advising multiple UN agencies and the World Bank on technology, trade, and economic development. She also served as President of WorldQuant University and currently advises organizations on developing underserved regions and social impact initiatives. Dr. McCue chairs the Plastic in Human Health Expert Group on the Global Advisory Council of the Knowledge Impact Network and is the founder of multiple programs that empower youth, women, and communities through technology and mentorship. Her work has earned recognition including NASA’s Robert H. Goddard Honor Award for Quality and Process Improvement and the NASA Group Achievement Award.
Dr. McCue’s guidance has strengthened NVMAA’s academic foundation and global engagement. She has supported the Lab to Law research initiative, helping connect our work on microplastic science and governance to broader policy contexts. Through her mentorship, NVMAA has had opportunities to present to international audiences and engage with expert groups aligned with United Nations and World Bank environmental priorities, amplifying our youth-led contributions to global microplastic understanding and action.
Reston Association
NVMAA partners with Reston Association to strengthen local environmental stewardship and community engagement around microplastic pollution. Through this collaboration, we support outreach, educational initiatives, and evidence-based discussions that connect global microplastic research to the needs of Reston’s residents, natural areas, and watershed systems.