Outreach

I believe outreach is one of the most important ways scientists can bridge the gap with the public and inspire future generations of critical thinkers and naturalists. My position at the APSU Center for Excellence for Field Biology allowed many opportunities to interact with the public and spread some knowledge. I have given presentations to a wide array of groups, from preschoolers to local Audubon and Naturalist societies.

gila with kids

Talking about gila monsters with elementary students (~200 third graders cycled through the lab in groups of 25 that day)!

box turts with kids

Showing off a pair of our outreach box turtles to third graders.

hognose field day

Working the Reptile/Amphibian booth at a local elementary school's field day.

creepy crawly critter day

Having a blast representing the APSU Center of Excellence for Field Biology booth at Land Between the Lakes' annual Creepy Crawly Critter Day.

Dunbar Cave talk

Delivering the main talk at Dunbar Cave State Natural Area's Tennessee State Parks 75th Anniversary event. July 28, 2012.

ymca kids

This girl from a YMCA summer youth program has mixed emotions about touching a red bat specimen. I'm sure she enjoyed the live reptiles more!