{"id":32,"date":"2019-06-17T16:06:57","date_gmt":"2019-06-17T16:06:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students-preprod\/officers\/"},"modified":"2026-03-19T17:06:59","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T17:06:59","slug":"meet-our-governing-board","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/about\/meet-our-governing-board\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet our Board"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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\u201cI became chair of the Student Section and it changed my life. In this position, I felt like a part of the scientific community, instead of just an apprentice to it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2014 Jenny Talbot, 2008 Chair of the Student Section<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2025-2026 Board<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Vasavi Prakash: Chair<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Affiliated institution:<\/strong>\u00a0Auburn University<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hometown:<\/strong>\u00a0Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bio:<\/strong>\u00a0I have completed my doctoral journey at Auburn University. With a strong background in conservation biology, human dimensions, and wildlife ecology, I have cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities facing human-wildlife conflicts today. I emphasize using systems approach with interdisciplinary methods. Beyond research, I have a great passion for outreach, mentoring, and collaboration. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Known for a detail-oriented and innovative mindset, I continuously seek new ways to address scientific challenges and am committed to making a meaningful impact within the field of ecology. I am eager to bring my passion for ecology and dedication to advancing our collective goals to this role. I am committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community within our section that encourages diverse perspectives and promotes active engagement among all members. Outside of academia, I enjoy traveling, experimenting and exploring culinary traditions, hiking, photography, and reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role and goals:\u00a0<\/strong>My role as Chair will be to facilitate a smooth transition to the new board and then ensure that we accomplish our goals throughout the year. We hope to host events that engage our student members and better prepare them for the rest of their lives in this field.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Sarah Willen-Nelson: Vice Chair<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Affiliated institution:\u00a0University of Missouri \u2013 St. Louis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hometown:\u00a0<\/strong>St. Louis, Missouri<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bio:\u00a0<\/strong>I am a PhD student at the University of Missouri- St. Louis. My research focuses on the diversification of social insects with a focus on Polistes, aka paper wasps. I am currently replicating a study done around 30 years ago to determine how paper wasp population and nest dynamics have changed over time. I am also interested in science communication and outreach. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Outside of academia I enjoy hiking, reading, and traveling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role and goals:\u00a0<\/strong>My role as Vice Chair is to support the Chair and become familiar with the duties of the chair to prepare to assume that role next year. I am also responsible for communicating with section and chapter liaisons.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Joe Zeno: Secretary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Affiliated Institution:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0University of Maine<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hometown:<\/strong>\u00a0Hampden, Massachusetts<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bio:\u00a0<\/strong>I am a recent graduate from the University of Maine with a B.S degree in Botany and Ecology, and intend to enroll in a PhD program next year! I have researched the chemical ecology of basil plants, ocean acidification along the U.S East Coast, and authored my honors thesis about the effect of climate change on the alpine plants of the Northeastern U.S. At UMaine, I served in a variety of leadership roles and found a love for student success, ecology, and scientific outreach. I have planned large-scale events and served in secretary positions that have prepared me for this role! <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

I attended ESA 2025 as a SEEDS Travel Awardee where I found my place in a great community and now I seek to give back and help improve our society. Currently I research urban ecosystems and hope to continue this in graduate school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role and goals:\u00a0<\/strong>My role is to record and organize meeting minutes, plan the student mixer at ESA, and attend to correspondence for meetings. I hope to bring new ideas and collaborations to this committee to improve scientific collaboration amongst ecologists.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Qingyu Gan: Webmaster & Social Media Manager<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Affiliated institution:<\/strong> University of Wyoming<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hometown:<\/strong> Sichuan, China<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bio:<\/strong> I am a Ph.D. student in the Program in Ecology and Evolution at the University of Wyoming. Broadly interested in conservation biology, my research focuses on understanding species\u2019 range dynamics under climate change from an eco-evolutionary perspective. I use both microcosm experiments and individual-based modeling simulations to explore these dynamics. Beyond my personal research in ecology, I am passionate about promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the scientific community.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

I manage a personal science communication account with over 6,000 followers and lead the Chinese Women in Ecology community, which connects and supports more than 400 members through shared resources and professional development opportunities. Outside of academia, I\u2019m a devoted dog lover and proud owner of two dogs who bring joy and balance to my Ph.D. journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role and goals:<\/strong> In my role, I maintain and regularly update our social media platforms (including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook) as well as our website to share news and activities from the Student Section and other ESA sections. I aim to highlight diverse research, scholarships, funding opportunities, workshops, and applications to better support and engage all our student members.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Jawad Zaman: Treasurer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Affiliated Institution:<\/strong> St. Joseph\u2019s University<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hometown:<\/strong> <\/span>Tokyo, Japan<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bio: <\/strong>I am an undergraduate student at St. Joseph\u2019s University, pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Business Administration. My research focuses on applying data science and machine learning to environmental and ecological monitoring, and I had the honor of presenting my work at the ESA 2025 Annual Meeting. Beyond academics, I am deeply involved in student leadership and sustainability initiatives.<\/span> <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

I currently serve as Treasurer of the Computer Club, President of the Go Green Club, and Chair of the SGA Food Pantry Committee. <\/span><\/span> These roles have strengthened my skills in financial management, budgeting, and transparent reporting, while nurturing my commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and student engagement. I am passionate about fostering inclusive communities where students feel empowered to contribute to ecological science, and I hope to bring that dedication to the ESA Student Section. Outside of my academic and leadership work, I enjoy volunteering for environmental initiatives, exploring new technologies, and participating in campus activities.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role and goals: <\/strong>As Treasurer, I will manage the Student Section\u2019s finances by maintaining the ESA SS Budget Tracking spreadsheet, monitoring the General, Travel, and Grants accounts, and ensuring all transactions are accurately recorded. I will coordinate with ESA\u2019s Chief Financial Officer to verify balances, process check requests, and approve purchases while following ESA protocols. Additionally, I will oversee student awards, including travel grants, and ensure funds are allocated transparently and efficiently. My goal is to support the Student Section\u2019s activities, facilitate smooth financial operations, and help create opportunities for students to engage in ecology through responsible fiscal stewardship.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Past Governing Boards<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
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2023-2024<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Megan Garvey: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vasavi Prakash: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

E. Aaron Walker: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kivi Snavely: Social Media and Webmaster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sarah Willen-Nelson: Treasurer<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2022-2023<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Coral del Ma Valle Rodr\u00edguez: Chair & Interim Webmaster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kayode Oshinubi: Vice-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Katherine Charton: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vasavi Prakash: Treasurer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2021-2022<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Josette McLean: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coral del Ma Valle Rodr\u00edguez: Vice-chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alicia Thomas: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Madison Griffin: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aubrey Tingler: Social Media &Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2020-2021<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Callie Oldfield: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josette McLean: Vice-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arona Bender: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Janelle Layton: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ajisha Alwin: Social Media and Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2019-2020<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Anjali Boyd: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Callie Oldfield: Vice-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josette McLean: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vanessa Blevines: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ajisha Alwin: Marketing\/Outreach Director<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2018-2019<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rob Crystal-Ornelas: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anjali Boyd: Vice-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emily Ernst: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greg Chorak: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Luke Lamb-Wotton: Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2017-2018<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Kelsey Fisher: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rob Crystal-Ornelas: Vice-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Luke Lamb-Wotton: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greg Chorak: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leo Calle: Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2016-2017<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Josh Scholl: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kelsey Fisher: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anna Groves: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rob Pecchia: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amanda Sorensen: Co-Webmaster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leo Calle: Co-Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2015-2016<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Winslow Hansen: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh Scholl: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kristin Michels: Co-Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jessica Klassen: Co-Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kelsey Fisher: Treasurer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kika Tarsi Tuff: Webmaster<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2014-2015<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dane Ward: Co-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kate Gallagher: Co-Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winslow Hansen: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nicole Boone: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh Scholl: Treasurer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2013-2014<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Kika Tarsi Tuff: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dane Ward: Co-Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kate Gallagher: Co-Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dayani Pieri: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh Scholl: Treasurer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2012-2013<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Joey Bernhardt: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kika Tarsi Tuff: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dayani Pieri: Secretary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh Scholl: Treasurer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2011-2012<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Jorge Ramos: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Joey Bernhardt: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dayani Pieri: Secretary<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2010-2011<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Naupaka Zimmerman: Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jorge Ramos: Vice Chair<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dayani Pieri: Secretary<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2008<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Jenny Talbot: Chair<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cThe biggest surprise of being an officer of the Student Section was discovering just how powerful, respected and integral we are to the Society as a whole [\u2026]. It is stimulating to be a part of a group of intellectual and creative minds that work together to get things done. \u201d<\/p>\n\u2014 Andr\u00e9a Kuchy, 2011 Vice-Chair of the Student Section<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\u201cI became chair of the Student Section and it changed my life. In this position, I felt like a part of the scientific community, instead of just an apprentice to it.\u201d \u2014 Jenny Talbot, 2008 Chair of the Student Section 2025-2026 Board Vasavi Prakash: Chair Affiliated institution:\u00a0Auburn University Hometown:\u00a0Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India Bio:\u00a0I have completed my doctoral journey at Auburn…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":0,"parent":136,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-32","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/32","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32"}],"version-history":[{"count":28,"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/32\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1516,"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/32\/revisions\/1516"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/136"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/esa.org\/students\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}