Our Team
Eric Sparks
Titles: Director of Coastal and Marine Extension; Associate Extension Professor; Assistant Director for Outreach; Coastal Ecology Specialist
Affiliations: Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant
Hometown: Allgood, Alabama
Education: Ph.D., Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama and Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 2014; B.S., Marine Biology, Troy University, 2008
Focus areas: Coastal conservation, restoration, ecology, estuaries, wetlands, living shorelines, marine debris, stewardship, citizen science
Favorite quote: “Live action!” – Turtle man
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Mentoring and helping a great group of people do amazing work!
CV
Email: eric.sparks@msstate.edu
Sara MArtin
Title(s): Extension Associate; Wetland Specialist
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant; Northern Gulf of Mexico Sentinel Site Cooperative
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Education: M.S., Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, 2015; B.S., Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, 2013
Focus area(s): Living shorelines, wetland plant communities, coastal conservation, environmental education and outreach
Favorite quote: “In this world, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant.” Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant.” – Elwood P. Dowd in Harvey
Favorite aspect of working with this group: There is always something new to learn!
Email: sem729@msstate.edu
Mandy Rigsby
Title(s): Environmental Stewardship Specialist
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant
Hometown: Jefferson City, Missouri
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, Southeast Missouri State University, 2016; M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, environmental education, citizen science, wildlife conservation, bats
Favorite quote: “I don’t know how many years on this earth I’ve got left, but I’m going to get real weird with it.” – Frank Reynolds
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Constant motivation and always having other biology nerds to geek-out with!
Email: m.rigsby@msstate.edu
Alyssa Rodolfich
Title(s): Extension Associate/Ph.D. Student
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Biloxi, Mississippi
Education: Ph.D., Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Mississippi State University (in progress); M.S., Environmental Geosciences, Mississippi State University, 2021; B.S., Geography, University of Southern Mississippi, 2018; A.A., History, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, 2017
Focus area(s): Mississippi Gulf Coast history, human-environment interactions, coastal conservation, environmental education
Favorite quote: “Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something.” – Plato
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Being able to do something different everyday and being surrounded by so many different people to learn from.
Email: aer331@msstate.edu
Matthew Virden
Title(s): Extension Assiociate/Ph.D. Student
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Montgomery, Alabama
Education: Ph.D., Forest Resources, Mississippi State University (in progress); M.S., Widlife, Fisheries, and Aquacultue, Mississippi State Unviersity, 2021; B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, 2018
Focus area(s): Wildlife conservation, ecology
Favorite quote: “I’m not superstitious but I’m a little stitious” – Michael Scott
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting to work with a team and exploring the field of coastal conservation!
Email: mfv24@msstate.edu
Keith Chenier
Title: M.S. Student/Extension Associate
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Thibodaux, LA
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biology, Nicholls State University
Focus area: Coastal ecology, restoration, and Extension
Favorite quote: “I am spanish moss on a live oak tree.” – Paul Ott
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting the chance to lead and help develop coastal projects.
Email: kjchenier@yahoo.com
Jaden “Big J” Akers
Title: Extension Associate/ M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Saucier, MS
Education: B.S., Conservation Biology, Mississippi State University; M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture (in progress)
Focus area: Coastal ecology, shoreline conservation and restoration, bivalves and mollusks
Favorite quote: “I’m a mammal that cares.” Sid the Sloth, Ice Age
Favorite aspect of working with this group: When they let me drive the boat!
Email: jaden.akers@msstate.edu
Ashleigh Robbins
Title: Extension Associate/ M.S Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Ocean Springs, MS
Education: M.S., Biosystems Engineering, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University, 2022
Focus area: Engineering, wave energy, and living shorelines
Favorite quote: “There is a powerful force unleashed when young people resolve to make a change.” – Jane Goodall
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting to do what I love in one of my favorite places with people who have the same passions I do.
Email: ad2164@msstate.edu
Kristi Gay
Title: Extension Program Assistant/ M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Morgan City, LA
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Marine Biology, University of Southern Mississippi
Focus area: Coastal ecology, water quality, microplastics, coastal conservation and restoration
Favorite quote: “I don’t know where I’m going, but I’m on my way.” – Carl Sandburg
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Having fun while saving the planet!
Email: kg1595@msstate.edu
Cynthia Lupton
Title: Extension Associate/Ph.D. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: St. Petersburg, Florida
Education: Ph.D., Forest Resources, Mississippi State University (in progress); M.S., Biology, University of West Florida, 2022; B.S., Biology – Marine Science Concentration, University of South Florida, 2019
Focus area: Coastal restoration and conservation
Favorite quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Favorite aspect of working with this group: It is inspiring working with so many passionate researchers.
Email: cl2121@msstate.edu
Trinity Yap
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Sparta, Tennessee
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, University of Southern Mississippi (in progress)
Focus area: Microplastics research, marine debris, conservation and restoration, coastal ecology
Favorite quote: “And so castles made of sand slip(s) into the sea eventually.” – Jimi Hendrix
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I love working with this group because I am surrounded by kind people who are driven by their passion to help the planet and all of the amazing things on it. I’m constantly learning how to be a better scientist while maintaining my personal goal of being able to give back to the planet and its communities.
Email: trinity.yap@usm.edu
Megan Chevis
Title: Extension Associate
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Bay St. Louis, MS
Education: M.Sc, Conservation and Biodiversity, University of Exeter, 2015; B.S. Biological Science, The University of Southern Mississippi, 2012
Focus area: Wildlife and coastal conservation, living shorelines
Favorite quote: “Bababooey” – Ben Wyatt, Parks and Recreation
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The opportunity to work on different projects and learn new skills
Email: mgc81@msstate.edu
Jennifer DeBose
Title: Postdoctoral Associate; Research Coordinator
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Hometown: Houston, TX
Education: Ph.D. & M.S. Animal Behavior, University of California – Davis; B.S.; Wildlife & Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University – College Station, 1998
Focus area: Marine chemical ecology, coastal ecology and restoration, animal behavior, outreach and education
Favorite quote: “For me, I am driven by two main philosophies: know more today about he world than I knew yesterday and lessen the suffering of others. You’d be surprised how far that gets you.” – Neil deGrase Tyson
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with a bunch of dedicated people on understanding, restoring, and sharing a beautiful coastal ecosystem
Email: jld972@msstate.edu
Maya Stratman
Title: Extension Program Assistant
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Prairie Village, Kansas
Education: Expected graduation date of December of 2023 for an undergraduate degree in marine science at the University of Hawaii.
Focus area: Coastal conservation and data science
Favorite quote: “Good. Always take things literally. How’s that working out for you?” The Way Way Back.
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with the group on a diverse set of projects and always having something new to learn.
Email: mms928@msstate.edu
Erin Wallace
Title: Communications and Marketing Assistant
Affiliation: Mississippi State University, Mississippi Sound Estuary Program
Hometown: Columbus, MS
Education: Bachelors of Arts: Public Relations from Mississippi State University
Focus area: Public Relations, Graphic Design, Social Media Management
Favorite quote: “Cool Beans”
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Nobody is left behind when it comes to fieldwork, we are a team that works together!
Email: ecw305@msstate.edu
Leslie Azwell
Title: Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University, Mississippi State Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Education: B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University
Focus area: Avian ecology, wetlands ecology, coastal conservation, plant ID, predator trapping and removal
Favorite quote: “There are some who can live without wild things and some who cannot.” -Aldo Leopold
Email: laa255@msstate.edu
Jeneil Patel
Title: Extension Associate, Margaret A. Davidson Fellow, SWMP Technician
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Hometown: Chattanooga, TN
Education: M.S., Environmental Geosciences, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biology, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, 2021
Focus area: Water quality, phytoplankton, sediment, and nutrient transport
Favorite quote: “Come on, the ocean is your friend, and you got friends all around you right now. Miles and miles of friends.” – Jake the Dog, Adventure Time
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with others who are passionate about coastal science and conservation!
Email: jp2633@msstate.edu
Elizabeth Englebretson
Title: Extension Associate; Coordinator of Plastic Free Gulf Coast; Co-coordinator of SWAPS; Co-Coordinator of Office Waste Reduction
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Spaceship Earth
Education: Public Interest Design Certificate, MSU CAAD 2015; Master of Landscape Architecture, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2013; Bachelor of Fine Arts Studio Arts, University of New Mexico, 2000
Focus area: Behavior change around single-use plastic and excessive waste, reusable systems, Environmental Justice, and Environmental Education.
Favorite quote: “When she transformed into a butterfly, the caterpillars spoke not of her beauty, but of her weirdness. They wanted her to change back into what she always had been. But she had wings.” ― Dean Jackson
Favorite aspect of working with this group: So many intelligent and creative people focused on making our world a better place through science, education, and action.
Email: e.englebretson@msstate.edu
Kaitlyn Mitchell
Title: Extension Associate
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Wetumpka, AL
Education: BS Marine Biology – Troy University & MS Biology – University of South Alabama
Focus area: coastal/plant conservation, wetlands, marine biology, ecology
Favorite quote: “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire” – Jennifer Lee
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I love being with a group of scientists who are just as passionate as I am, and getting to study the ecosystems I love.
Email: krs717@msstate.edu
Keely Colinger
Title: Extension Program Assistant
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Taylor, Arkansas
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, Southern Arkansas University, 2022
Focus area: Conservation, sustainability, and restoration
Favorite quote: “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.” -Dolly Parton
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Being welcomed with open arms and smiling faces as well as gaining experience/new skills.
Email: kmc1217@msstate.edu
Elliott Butler
Title: Extension Program Assistant
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Ridgeland, MS
Education: M.S., Biosystems Engineering, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University, 2023 Mississippi State University, 2022
Focus area: Engineering, water quality, remote sensing
Favorite quote: “C’mon son!” – Burton ‘Gus’ Guster (Psych)
Favorite aspect of working with this group: A passionate group of people who all share a common goal of conserving our coastal environment.
Email: web190@msstate.edu
Katie Walsh Fetzer
Title: Intermittent Worker
Affiliation: MSU, MEEA Vice Chair (MS Environmental Education Alliance)
Hometown: Moss Point, MS
Education: B.A. Environmental Studies, 6-12 General Science teaching license
Focus area: Education Outreach
Favorite quote: “What if it turns out better than you imagined?”
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I am excited to be around people who have the environment at the forefront of their minds
Email: kwf40@msstate.edu
Hailea Boggess
Title: Intermittent Worker
Affiliation: MSU
Hometown: Bloomington, IN
Education: B.S. Ecology and Evolution from Purdue University and M.S. Marine Biology from UNC Wilmington
Focus area: Estuary Database Analyst
Favorite quote: “The only true currency in life is the effect we have on those around us.” ~Tom Felton
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I love the passion everyone has for conservation and collaboration
Email: hfb54@msstate.edu
CJ Nickell-Templin
Title: Intermittent Worker
Hometown: Bogue Chitto
Affiliation: Native Plant Producer Network
Focus area: Native Plants
Favorite aspect of working with this group: My favorite aspect of working with this group is the opportunity to explore and work with new plants!
Email: cjn47@gmail.com
Abigail Collins
Title: Intermittent Worker
Hometown: Eaton, Ohio
Affiliation: MSU
Focus area: Living Shoreline
Favorite quote: “Everyone, everywhere is inextricably connected to and utterly dependent upon the existence of the sea.” -Dr. Sylvia Earle
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I am grateful to be part of a group that is willing to share skills with others, allowing true growth and teamwork! I am also excited to work with others who share a similar passion!
Kaylin Bruening
Title: Communications Intern
Affiliation: University of South Alabama, Pascagoula River Basin Alliance – Vice President, MS Coast Audubon – Field Trip coordinator, Mississippi Crane Refuge Society – President
Hometown: Ocean Springs, MS
Education: B.S. in Geography with a minor in Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama
Focus area: Marine Science
Favorite quote: “Be a nuisance where it counts” – Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I’ve crossed paths with and assisted the CCR team while working for other environmental organizations, so it’ll be really cool to experience these projects from a new perspective!
Email: coastalkaylin@gmail.com
Tia Gaskin
Title: Marine Debris Intern
Affiliation: MGCCC, USM
Hometown: Henderson, Colorado
Education: Pre-BSN, Pursing Biology as undergraduate through USM Gulf Park Campus
Focus area: Living Shorelines, Bird Project, Marine Debris Project, SWAPS
Favorite quote: “It could always be worse.” -Someone in the Military questioning their life choices
Favorite aspect of working with this group: My first impression was how nice and helpful everyone is. Coming from the military, I was nervous for the transition, but this group welcomed me with open arms. I feel I am where I’m suppose to be, and I am a sponge, here to absorb and help in any way I can!
Email: gaskintian@gmail.com
Alumni
Amanda Jargowsky
Titles: Extension Associate; Marine Fisheries Specialist
Affiliations: Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
Education: M.S., Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama and Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 2017; B.S., Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 2013
Focus areas: Marine fisheries ecology, coastal ecology, coastal restoration, outreach and education
Favorite quote: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman
Favorite aspect of working with this group: We’re all super passionate about science and love what we do, so it’s a positive and fun working environment!
Email: amanda.jargowsky@msstate.edu
Anthony Vedral
Title(s): Ph.D. Student/Extension Associate
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Yonkers, New York
Education: Ph.D., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); M.S., Marine Science, University of Alabama; B.S., Biology, Spring Hill College
Focus area(s): Marine debris, microplastics, water quality, wetlands, estuaries, coastal ecology, environmental conservation and restoration, education, and stewardship
Favorite quote: “Sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind. The race is long, and in the end, it’s only with yourself” – Mary Schmich (more famously Baz Luhrmann)
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The passion to have a positive impact on our local environment and communities.
Email: anthony.vedral@msstate.edu
Nora Skinner
Title: Extension Program Assistant/ M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Walnut Cove, NC
Education: M.S., Conservation Education, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Marine Science, North Carolina State University
Focus area: Environmental education, environmental conservation and restoration, marine conservation
Favorite quote: “The Sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever” – Jacques Cousteau
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Being in a new place and being able to work with and learn from an awesome group of people that are passionate about our environment!
Email: ncs218@msstate.edu
Amanda Free
Title: Extension Program Associate/ M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Hometown: Hernando, MS
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biochemistry, Mississippi State University
Focus area: Microbial source tracking, conservation grazing
Favorite quote: “Despite knowing they won’t be here for long, they still choose to live their brightest lives” – “Sunflowers”, Rupi Kaur
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Having the ability to make a real impact on the environment while working around people who are just as passionate and nerdy as I am
Email: amf654@msstate.edu
Nate McGregor
Title: Extension Associate
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Hometown: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Education: B.S., Wildlife Management, Eastern Kentucky University
Focus area: Coastal ecology, Upland restoration, Invasive species removal, Stewardship, and Conservation
Favorite quote: “A true hunter recognizes that experiences are the ultimate hunting trophies.” – Steven Rinella
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with a group of people whose passion is to conserve the plants and animals that make up our coastal ecosystem.
Email: nem157@msstate.edu
Ansley Levine
Title: Extension Program Assistant/ M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Biology/Environmental Science and Policy, William & Mary
Focus area: Environmental conservation and restoration, marine conservation, coastal ecology and sustainability
Favorite quote: “When life gets you down, do you wanna know what you’ve gotta do? Just keep swimming!” – Dory (Finding Nemo)
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The opportunity to work in a collaborative research setting and learn from other people that are passionate about coastal conservation and education.
Email: ajl564@msstate.edu
Ellie Mallon
Title: M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Carmel, Indiana
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Marine Biology, Springhill College, 2018
Focus area: Marine debris, litter abatement, stewardship, coastal conservation
Favorite quote: “No matter where you go, there you are” – Confucius
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Chance to continually learn new things from awesome people who are passionate about the work they are doing.
Email: erm385@msstate.edu
Claire Kirby
Title: Extension Apprentice/Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: College of Charleston
Hometown: New Bern, NC
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, College of Charleston (in progress)
Focus area: marine ecology and conservation
Favorite quote: “There are some who can live without wild things and some who cannot” – Aldo Leopold
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Creating a fun work environment that is inclusive, while simulaneously motivating each other to expand our knowledge on the intricate world of nature around us.
Email: kirbyclaire36@gmail.com
Brianna Andrews
Title: Extension Program Associate; M.S. Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Hometown: Slidell, LA
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Environmental Biology, William Carey University
Focus area: Coastal ecology, marine aquaculture
Favorite quote: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” -Dr. Seuss
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with a group of people as passionate about what they do as I am. There is never a day that is the exact same as the one before or after it and there is always an opportunity to learn something new each day.
Email: bma253@msstate.edu
Grant Peterson
Title: Undergraduate Apprentice
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Starkville, MS
Education: B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area: Wetland ecology, restoration, conservation biology, GIS, waste reduction
Favorite quote: “Ha-ha, you fool! you fell victim to one of the classic blunders!” – The Princess Bride
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Learning about so many different ecological topics from so many knowledgeable mentors.
Email: gcp86@msstate.edu
Kristie Gill
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Arizona State University, African Wildlife Services
Hometown: Ocean Springs, MS
Education: B.S., Biology, Ecology & Conservation & GIS Certification, Arizona State University
Focus area: Restoration ecology, population and community ecology, GIS, ecosystem dynamics
Favorite quote: “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting hands-on field experience with a diverse array of research projects with individuals who have a real passion for environmental restoration.
Email: klgill1@asu.edu
Sarah Kravitz
Title: Undergraduate Apprentice
Affiliation: Purdue University
Hometown: Glenview, IL
Education: B.S., Environmental and Ecological Engineering, minor in Spanish, Purdue University (in progress)
Focus area: Environmental and ecological engineering, coastal restoration
Favorite quote: “A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking because its trust is not on the branch, but on its own wings” – Anonymous
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Actively contributing to a cause I feel passionate about with individuals that share the same passion with me.
Email: sarahlacey13@gmail.com
Andrew Lucore
Title(s): Extension Program Assistant
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Waveland, Mississippi
Education: B.S., Conservation Law Enforcement, Mississippi State University, 2018
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, wetland ecology
Favorite quote: “There are two things that interest me: the relation of people to each other, and the relation of people to land.” – Aldo Leopold
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working outdoors and meeting new people.
Email: ael219@msstate.edu
Antonette DeSilva
Title(s): Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Biloxi, Mississippi
Education: B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area(s): General sciences
Favorite quote: “If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life” – Marcus Mosiah Garvey
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Being able to work with a team conducting research aimed at the sustainability of our coastal environment.
Email: aad340@msstate.edu
Haley Moss
Title(s): Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Gulf Breeze, Florida
Education: B.S., Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area(s): Coastal conservation, restoration
Favorite quote: “Great things never came from your comfort zone.” – Unknown
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting to meet new people and learn new things.
Email: hbm115@msstate.edu
Allie Blanchette
Title(s): Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Eldersburg, Maryland
Education: B.S. Environmental Science, University of California Los Angeles
Focus area(s): Living shorelines, marine debris, outreach and education
Favorite quote: “I cannot distinguish between the love I have for people and the love I have for dogs” -Kurt Vonnegut
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Learning about environmental outreach and working in the beautiful Gulf Coast wetlands.
Email: ablanchette912@gmail.com
Payton Billingsley
Title(s): Extension Apprentice
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Rockland, ME
Education: B.S., Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering concentration, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area(s): Coastal restoration, environmental engineering, wave climate mapping, community engagement
Favorite quote: “Exhaust yourself in the glorious pursuit of life!” – L.K. Fish
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working outdoors with a passionate team of people to make the world a better place.
Email: pb653@msstate.edu
Daniel Firth
Title(s): M.S. Student; Research Assistant
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Hattiesburg, MS
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, University of Southern Mississippi, 2013
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, living shorelines, estuarine fauna
Favorite quote: “You can judge a man’s true character by the way he treats his fellow animals” – Paul McCartney
Favorite aspect of working with this group: A brilliant team, willing to challenge themselves and others to conserve our ecosystems.
Email: dcf72@msstate.edu
Loren Roman-Nunez
Title(s): Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; University of Southern Mississippi
Hometown: Port Orange, FL
Education: B.S., Environmental Biology, University of Southern Mississippi
Focus area(s): Conservation, wildlife ecology, endangered species management
Favorite quote: “How often I found where I should be going only by setting out for somewhere else” – R. Buckminster Fuller
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Having the opportunity to make a difference in local conservtaion efforts and meet new people.
Email: ler359@msstate.edu
Sarah Cunningham
Title(s): Extension Program Assistant
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Round Rock, TX
Education: B.S., Environmental Science, University of Texas
Focus area(s): Coastal conservation, wetlands ecology, stewardship, outreach
Favorite quote: “You think we need one more?” – George Clooney as Daniel Ocean, Oceans 11
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The diverse research interests and opportunities.
Email: sc2892@msstate.edu
Aaron Macy
Title(s): Extension Program Associate
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Charleston, IL
Education: Ph.D., Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama (in progress); B.S., Oceanography, Florida Institue of Technology, 2008
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, wetlands, estuaries, climate science, stewardship, education
Favorite quote: “Watch your thoughts, they become words; watch your words, they become actions; watch your actiions, they become habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, for it becomes your destiny” – Frank Outlaw
Favorite aspect of working with this group: We are focused on helping to build thriving coastal communities. We start empirically.
Email: amacy@disl.org
Pamela Clevenger
Title(s): Extension Associate
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: El Dorado, AR
Education: M.C.S., Mississippi College; M.Ed., Mississippi State University; B.S., Mississippi State University
Focus area(s): Environmental education
Favorite quote: “A good song should give you a lot of images; you should be able to make your own little movie in your head to a good song.” – Tom Petty
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Water!
Email: pclevenger@southalabama.edu
Gillian Palino
Title(s): Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; University of Florida
Hometown: Bradenton, Florida
Education: B.S., Environmental Engineering, University of Florida (in progress)
Focus area(s): Environmental engineering, GIS, coastal restoration
Favorite quote: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot. Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – The Lorax
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Getting to learn a lot about Extension and coastal research.
Email: gmp128@msstate.edu
Wayne Porter
Title(s): Senior Extension Apprentice
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Ocean Springs, MS
Education: PhD, North Carolina State University; M.S., Mississippi State University; B.S., Mississippi State University
Focus area(s): Coastal conservation, wetlands ecology, stewardship, outreach
Favorite quote: “You may be right, I may be crazy. But it just may be a lunatic you’re looking for?” – Billy Joel, ‘You May Be Right’; Glasshouses album
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Learning something new.
Email: wayne.porter@msstate.edu
Abby Schell
Title(s): Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Acworth, GA
Education: B.S., Environmental Science, Kennesaw State University
Focus area(s): Environmental studies, conservation
Favorite quote: “Attitude is the difference between an ordeal and an adventure.” – Unknown
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Gaining experience in the field I’m passionate about and meeting new people.
Email: abbycschell@gmail.com
Erin McBain
Title: GOMA Intern
Hometown: Blair, Wisconsin
Education: Graduating in December from University of South Alabama with a bachelors degree in Biology with a concentration in Marine Science and a Psychology minor. Also attended University of Wisconsin Eau-Claire for two years.
Focus area: Conservation, ecology, and restoration.
Favorite quote: “Remember, your words can plant gardens or burn whole forests down” – Gemma Troy
Favorite aspect of working with this group: gaining experience, meeting like-minded individuals, and doing fieldwork.
Brynna Lepre
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: University of Southern Mississippi
Hometown: Biloxi, MS
Education: B.S., Biological Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi (in progress)
Focus area: Microbial source tracking
Favorite quote: “Life finds a way.” – Dr. Ian Malcolm, Jurassic Park
Favorite aspect of working with this group: To be determined – I just started
Email: brynna.lepre@usm.edu
Rory McCollum
Title(s): Undergraduate intern
Affiliation(s): Macalester College
Hometown: Mount Vernon, Iowa
Education: B.A., Biology, Macalester College (in progress)
Focus area(s): Aquatic ecology, conservation
Favorite quote: “Be brave, stay wild.” – Coyote Peterson
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The atmosphere encourages asking questions and ensures that everyone understands not only each step of the process but also the reasoning behind it. The people make it a great experience because they care deeply about the work and one another.
Email: amccollu@macalester.edu
Emily Stolz
Title(s): Undergraduate intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Diamondhead, MS
Education: B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, wildlife conservation
Favorite quote: “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, ascrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” -Pele
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with and getting to learn from people who are just as passionate about conservation as I am.
Email: ecs315@msstate.edu
Gaelyn Gros
Title: Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, Minor, Geography, University of Southern Mississippi, 2018
Focus area: Ecology, environmental education, oceanography, trophic interactions
Favorite quote: “Hakuna matata”
Favorite aspect of working with this group: High quality science and high quality pals.
Email: gmg142@msstate.edu
Shardeja English
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University, Tuskegee University
Hometown: Montgomery, AL
Education: B.S., Biology, Tuskegee University (in progress)
Focus area: Coastal ecology, restoration, and marine debris
Favorite quote: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” – Proverbs 31:25
Email: senglish5252@tuskegee.edu
Jessica Gooch
Title(s): Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; University of Southern Mississippi
Hometown: Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Education: B.S., Environmental Biology, University of Southern Mississippi (in progress)
Focus area(s): Environmental studies, conservation, environmental education
Favorite quote: “Fall down seven times, get up eight.” – Japanese proverb
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with a diverse group of people where there is always something new to learn and discover.
Email: jgooch9811@gmail.com
Skylar Liner
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Gray, LA
Education: B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area: Coastal ecology, restoration, and Extension
Favorite quote: “I have no idea what I’m doing, but I know I’m doing it really well.” – Andy Dwyer, Parks and Rec
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The ability to work in an environment that I hold near to my heard and meeting new people along the way!
Email: srl265@msstate.edu
Abigail Johnson
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; University of Southern Mississippi
Hometown: McCool, MS
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, University of Southern Mississippi (in progress)
Focus area: Marine debris; microplastics; marine biology, marine conservation
Favorite quote: “If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sun beams, and you will always look lovely.” – Roald Dahl
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I get to meet many wonderful like-minded people who all share my passion for keeping the Gulf’s coastalines beautiful and full of life for years to come.
Email: abigail.e.johnson@usm.edu
Nigel Temple
Title(s): Ph.D Student; Research Assistant
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Education: Ph.D., Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University;M.S., Biological Sciences, University of Alabama; B.S., Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech
Focus area(s): Coastal restoration, conservation, ecology, wetlands, living shorelines project design and implementation, Arduino, DIY environmental sensing
Favorite quote: “The answer is 42” – Douglas Adams
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Transferring historical knowledge and new technical approaches to stakeholders to solve pressing, real-world problems.
Email: 757nigel@gmail.com
Sonia Vedral
Title(s): Extension Associate; Education Coordinator
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; Northern Gulf of Mexico Sentinel Site Cooperative; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant
Hometown: Boston, MA
Education: M.S., Marine Biology, Nova Southeastern University, 2014; B.S., Biology, Northeastern University, 2012
Focus area(s): Sea-level rise, education
Favorite quote: “The best way to observe a fish is to become a fish” – Jacques Yves Cousteau
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Bringing science research and education to a younger generation.
Email: s.vedral@msstate.edu
Mikaela Heming
Title(s): Extension Associate; Project Coordinator
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant; Northern Gulf of Mexico Sentinel Site Cooperative
Hometown: Boston, MA
Education: B.S., Environmental Science, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, 2016
Focus area(s): Communication, sea-level rise
Favorite quote: “I’m not strange, weird, off, nor crazy, my reality is just different than yours.” – Lewis Carroll
Favorite aspect of working with this group: People who love what they do and care about its impact!
Email: m.heming@msstate.edu
Zehra Mohsin
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University; University of Southern Mississippi-Gulf Park; Gulf Coast Research Lab
Hometown: Shawnee, Kansas
Education: B.S., Marine Biology, University of Southern Mississippi (in progress)
Focus area: Marine chemistry, water quality, coastal ecology, conservation, community outreach, chemistry education
Favorite quote: “Where we’re going, we don’t need roads.” – Dr. Emmettt Brown
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Common interest of protecting and preserving our waters, and every organism that resides in them.
Email: zehra.mohsin@usm.edu
Renee Collini
Title(s): Extension Associate; Program Coordinator; Ph.D. Student
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University; Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant; Northern Gulf of Mexico Sentinel Site Cooperative
Hometown: Arlington, TX
Education: Ph.D., Forest Resources, Mississippi State University (in progress); M.S., Marine Sciences, University of South Alabama, 2012; B.S., Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 2008
Focus area(s): Sea-level rise, integrating climate science into decision-making, climate change, coastal observing, long-term monitoring and observing
Favorite quote: “Men and nature must work hand in hand. The throwing out of balance of the resources of nature throws out of balance also the lives of men.” – FDR
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working with hardworking dedicated people getting things done to improve the world around us.
Email: r.collini@msstate.edu
Caitlin Consago
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Aurora, IL
Education: B.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress)
Focus area: Coastal restoration and conservation
Favorite quote: “Pursue something so important that even if you fail, the world is better off with having you tried.” – Tim O’Reilly
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Having the chance to learn a multitude of skills and the opportunity to work with those who share a common interest in conservation.
Email: cc3876@msstate.edu
Jessi James
Title(s): Extension Associate/M.S. Student
Affiliation(s): Mississippi State University
Hometown: Biloxi, Mississippi
Education: M.S., Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Psychology, The University of Southern Mississippi, 2019; B.S., Marine Biology, The University of Southern Mississippi, 2015; A.A., Bachelor of Science Prepatory, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Focus area(s): Coastal ecology, marine debris, environmental sustainability, citizen science, science communication
Favorite quote: “Everyone you will ever meet knows something that you don’t” – Bill Nye (The Science Guy)
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I am excited to be able to work with people from diverse backgrounds on collaborative efforts in making Mississippi more environmentally conscious and sustainable.
Email: jaj322@msstate.edu
Shelby Harrier-Mylum
Title: Undergraduate Intern
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Alma, Michigan
Education: B.S., Marine Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi
Focus area: Coastal ecology, restoration, and marine debris
Favorite quote: “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore” – Andre Gide
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Learning new things and being able to be part of something that has so much impact!
Email: sah752@msstate.edu
Olivia Gribling
Title: Marine Debris Intern
Affiliation: MSU
Hometown: Long Beach, MS
Education: Pursuing undergraduate in Conservation Biology/Environmental Sciences
Focus area: Marine Debris
Favorite quote: “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished” – Lao Tzu
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I am excited to have the opportunity to work alongside a team that holds the same concern and love for the environment. I look forward to learning new things and helping anywhere I can!
Email: oamims324@gmail.com
Mason Welch
Title: Boat Mechanic/ Undergraduate Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Biloxi, MS
Education: B.S. Industrial Engineering (in progress); A.A., Industrial Engineering, Mississippi State University, 2022
Focus area: engineering, mechanics, esoteric knowledge
Favorite quote: “I don’t believe anything, but I have many suspicions.”- Robert Wilson
Favorite aspect of working with this group: The opportunity to learn new skills as new problems arise.
Email: mpw170@msstate.edu
Page Graham
Title: Intermittent Worker
Affiliation: Native Plant Producer Network
Hometown: Long Beach, MS
Education: B.S. Sustainability Sciences-Coastal System Dynamics with a Minor in Biological Sciences
Focus area: Native Plants
Favorite quote: “We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I love working with a team that is enthusiatic about coastal conservation and sustainability.
Email: Plg47@msstate.edu
Allie Koehn
Title: Extension Program Assistant/ MS Student
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Iuka, MS
Education: M.S., Conservation Education, Mississippi State University (in progress); B.S., Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation, Mississippi State University
Focus area: Environmental education, conservation and restoration
Favorite quote: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss, The Lorax
Favorite aspect of working with this group: Working and collaborating with a great group of researchers that have the same passion for the environment as I do.
Email: tb2181@msstate.edu
David Randolph
Hometown: Monmouth, IL
Education: Master of Environmental Policy and Management
Focus area: Keesler Living Shoreline
Favorite quote:“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face, You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Favorite aspect of working with this group: It is my first experience working after 20 years in the USMC, and I get to put all my education to work now.
Email: djrandolph0303@gmail.com
Molly Bears
Title: Student Worker
Affiliation: Mississippi State University
Hometown: Starkville, Mississippi
Education: B.S. Environmental Geosciences, current
Focus area: Remote sensing, water quality, Biogeochemistry
Favorite quote: “It is only when we forget all our learning that we begin to know.” – Henry Thoreau
Favorite aspect of working with this group: I can’t wait to put all the skills I have accumulated over the years to work towards coastal conservation efforts.
Email: mmb694@msstate.edu
