I have always had a love for insects and other wildlife. As a kid, I would always be looking for the next coolest insect for my collection. Frequently, my father would take me to his work (a large business park in Maryland), where the building lights would attract giant silk moths (my favorite group of insects) in the late spring and summer, supplied by the several acres of old-growth forest nearby. One day, the forest was clear-cut to add more buildings to the park, and I never saw another silk moth there again. This sparked my passion for insect and wildlife conservation.
I later earned bachelor's degrees in entomology and wildlife conservation & ecology from the University of Delaware. As a student, I assisted with research on managing invasive insects using biological control agents. This propelled me to pursue and complete a master's degree at Utah State University with a research project on the invasion ecology and management of the brown marmorated stink bug in the Utah agricultural landscape.
Eventually, I landed in insect diagnostics, where my goal is to identify and assist clients with their insect inquiries and concerns. I am more broadly passionate about changing perspectives on insects, even the ones we tend to hate.
In my free time, I enjoy cycling (I miss mountain biking in Utah), hiking, rock climbing, playing the cello, cooking, and photography.