I am broadly interested in the effects of land management practices on wildlife in our region. Currently, I am involved with a large-scale camera trapping project looking at the effects of flooding on mammalian and avian biodiversity in bottomland hardwood and xero-hydric flatwood systems. In my spare time I enjoy hunting, fishing, kayaking, and anything else that allows me to enjoy the outdoors. I am involved with Murray State's chapters of The Wildlife Society, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and Ducks Unlimited.

I am both an undergraduate and a graduate student in the 4+1 program. I enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, painting, wildlife photography, and I love birds! My research is assessing the influence of habitat characteristics and brood parasitism on wood duck (Aix sponsa) nest box use and success. My career goals are to work a state wildlife agency working with both non-game and game birds.  

I am currently researching the landscape of fear concept using raccoons and an extirpated predator, the red wolf (Canis rufus), as study species. This study will determine if raccoons still possess an instinctual fear of red wolves, although the latter has been extirpated from the Southeastern United States (their historic range) for over a hundred years. The overall goal of this research is to elucidate the ecosystem services provided by red wolves as an apex predator, and help strengthen their recovery efforts. Aside from my research, my hobbies include trail running, hiking, and rock climbing.

I am broadly interested in the anthropogenic threats that endangered species face and their subsequent survival and recovery plans. I am currently taking over the research project assessing the effects of turtle racing on eastern box turtles. My long term career goal is to work in endangered species conservation and management. In my free time I enjoy hiking, reading, crocheting, going to concerts, and spending time with my dog.