I am a classically trained marine field ecologist who works at the intersection of community and ecosystem ecology. My research program is broadly focused on two central themes: 1) how do anthropogenic stressors influence the resilience of nearshore ecological communities, and 2) what are the services and functions of the emergent, shifted, or novel marine communities arising in the Anthropocene. My research spans a range of systems, from tropical reefs to temperate intertidal shores; I have successfully conducted research on marine plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. I believe in student-centered research mentorship because it has been shown to increase student, particularly URM, retention in STEM, which has made my research program vibrant and diverse.
Through my experience mentoring student researchers , I have developed a passion for fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sciences. My mentees are as successful as they are diverse, presenting posters and talks at national and international meetings, publishing research papers, and excelling in graduate school and careers. To date, I have mentored more than 50 students through seven programs. Currently, 12 of these former students are in, or have matriculated, graduate school. This mentorship experience, combined with being a biracial woman, gives me unique insights to the barriers facing individuals from underrepresented communities in higher education, STEM, and particularly in marine ecology. My postdoctoral activities as an NSF Postdoctoral Research Fellow under the Broadening Participation of Groups Underrepresented in Biology program were designed to build upon my impactful record of leadership in advancing the success of underrepresented and underserved students. If you are seeking advice in the field, please reach out! I'd love to set up a meeting!