Q: Why did you choose to pursue two degrees simultaneously?

A: I’ve always been excited about how math and statistics can help us understand and solve conservation issues. While my Ph.D. research allowed me to delve deep into one specific area of statistics and its applications in ecology, I found myself wanting broader training in statistical foundations so that I’d have the knowledge to choose the most applicable statistical tool for a given ecological question. 

We are currently in a time when data, artificial intelligence, and algorithms underpin not only ecological research and conservation, but almost every aspect of our daily lives. With that, statistics and data are often held up as “objective” measures or truths, both within science and beyond. This can lead to data and statistics perpetuating biases and oppression in dangerous ways. Much of my research aims to uncover and rectify these biases within conservation and environmental justice, so I wanted to ensure I have a solid background in statistics. 

Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced on your way to graduation?

A: I had to unlearn a lot of what I had learned and idolized about environmentalism and conservation in the past, and I became very disillusioned with many aspects of science and conservation. Learning about the legacies of oppression and injustice that are deeply intertwined with conservation, I became very unsure of how I could align my values and goals with a career in this field. I considered leaving graduate school and changed course several times during my degree. Ultimately, though, this unlearning and uncertainty have helped me find a community that has become so important to my growth as a scientist and person and re-envision the impact I hope to make throughout my career.  

Q: What was your favorite experience at CSU?

A: All my favorite experiences are related to the incredible community of colleagues and friends I am lucky to have here. It can be hard to feel belonging in many academic spaces, and it can often feel like progress within conservation is slow. My favorite experiences are moments when I’ve been inspired by innovative people making meaningful change within conservation and academia.

I have also really loved growing as a teacher while I have been at CSU because it has been so invigorating to see how dedicated and creative Warner College’s undergraduate students are. It gives me hope to see our field embrace more perspectives and people and to hear important conversations taking place in many classes about how conservation has historically been exclusionary and violent toward many. Students — especially students of color, queer students, first-generation students and other students who have lived the consequences of environmental injustice — are leading most of these conversations, and I cannot wait for the field to be shaped by more and more of these voices. 

Q: What do you hope to do after graduation?

A: I am excited to continue to work toward environmental justice and a more inclusive conservation field, and I am still exploring what that might look like. For now, I am staying in Fort Collins for a postdoc position with the Colorado State Forest Service and the Department of Forestry and Rangeland Stewardship at CSU. Fort Collins has come to feel like home, and I’m looking forward to continuing my involvement in this community through things like serving on the city’s Climate Equity Committee.