Current Position
Ph.D. Student, Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri (MU)

Research Interests
Genomics, Systematics, Polyploidy genome evolution and ecology

BSA Service
BSA Member (2019 - )

Other Service
MU Biological Sciences Graduate Student Association Executive Board Member (2020 - )
MU Science on Tap! Executive Board Member (2020 - )

Statement of Interest
I became a member of the Botanical Society of America (BSA) in 2019 prior to attending the annual meeting. Botany 2019 was an eye-opening experience that introduced me to the amazing BSA community. Even as a new member, I instantly felt included. Meeting new and old faces, exploring the vast diversity of botanical research, and botanizing in a new location were life changing experiences. Furthermore, attending the conference helped reinforce the idea that I could pursue a career in Botany. I am running for this position because I want to ensure that students have good experiences like I did. As a Student Director of the Board, I will ensure that students’ needs and voices are heard in society decisions and want to continue the trend of planning and implementing excellent events and digital resources for students. I aim to make all students feel welcomed and supported by BSA. Moreover, I want to explore options to expand the BSA’s online reach and presence, and will strive to open new doors to make BSA more accessible to a diverse community of student botanists.