I am a lecturer in ecology, conservation biology, and environmental sciences. This is my second year teaching at Guilford College. I am also a naturalist, environmental educator, researcher and conservation practitioner. My most recent work focused on maximizing urban green space conservation to optimize ecosystem services. My other experiences include restoration ecology of the Longleaf pine and hardwood forest ecosystems, wildland hydrology, and recreation resource management.

I incorporate informal, experiential and place-based materials into my courses. In the Ecology and Evolution class I teach at Guilford, we often visit the Guilford Woods to learn ecological and evolutionary principles/concepts by getting familiar with the local ecosystem, its flora and fauna. Learning from the immediate outdoors is a part of the larger goal in my class, which is to help students understand the natural forces that shape an area and develop scientific skills through ecological experiments. The scientific skills I cover include observation, experimental design, written and oral communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving using hands-on and group activities. In addition, I take a student-centered teaching approach, challenging students to go beyond the course materials and explore the relevancy and practical application of the course materials in today’s world. Bring your open minds and come ready to engage and explore.