Guam
Born and raised on the Pacific island of Rota, I am interested studying the threatened and endangered species of the Marianas as well as Micronesia as a whole. My current professional experience ranges from educational outreach and engagement across communities, to in-depth field research within the limestone forests of Guam. My island roots are deeply tied to both my personal and professional identities, which presently influence me to foster a deeper connection to my work through our lands, waters, and more-than-human beings. As such, my passions lie in tropical conservation, terrestrial ecology, and getting our local communities involved and excited about these research efforts. Currently, I am a PhD student in the Kingston Lab at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. Eventually, my long-term goal is to continue work within the Marianas, while applying the knowledge and various experiences I have gained at a more local level. Just as the ocean waters bridge islands together, I aim to connect with others who feel as strongly as I do, sharing stories and understanding each other’s differences in lived experiences. Science truly is for everyone, and as we aim for the field to reflect the biodiversity we find in nature, it can only advance for the betterment of all!
Experienced establishing and running transects for Pteropus mariannus presence surveys and collected field data. Experienced hiking and navigating limestone forest habitat. Conducted weekly morning bat station surveys, as well as occasional roost surveys.
Research Fellow at the Rachel Page Bat Lab (STRI) Co-led collaborative research on the impact of artificial light on the foraging behavior of Carollia perspicillata, and currently spearheading an independent study on the novel foraging strategy of Trachops cirrhosus when targeting silent, motionless prey. Created engaging posts and outreach material as social media manager that have notably boosted interest and attendance at the lab’s monthly community science outreach events. Actively participated in and led various stations at these events, engaging with diverse demographics.
Conducted photo mark-recapture (PMR) surveys of endangered snails to assess population size throughout seasons. Experienced in utilizing a Trimble Geo 7 GPS for data collection during PMR surveying. Assessed endangered snail populations through Program MARK and SECR on R. Managed multiple project databases.
Participated in field surveys for endangered butterflies on Andersen Air Force Base. Assisted in endangered butterfly captive rearing efforts. Reviewed and compiled butterfly presence data from trail camera footage.