College of Science & Mathematics
Master of Marine & Environmental Science
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Margo Boucetta - I am from Louisiana, where I earned a BS in biological sciences and worked on various research projects in coastal science at the University of New Orleans. I assisted in assessing primary production and fouling communities at artificial reefs in the Coastal Benthic Ecology Laboratory, and I joined the Conservation and Molecular Genetics Laboratory to study seagrass epibiota diversity with a metabarcoding approach. I was also awarded a NSF REU internship at Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium to examine benthic infaunal community dynamics. I currently enjoy a position as a technician in the Environmental Analysis Laboratory here at UVI. I love field work and have volunteered with the Pontchartrain Conservancy reforesting swampland and the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana restoring shoreline habitat with recycled oyster shells. I am excited to contribute my passion for environmental restoration and study mangrove ecology with Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes. |
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Adina Browne - Hello! My name is Adina Browne, and I serve as an Animal Welfare Specialist II – Avian & Aquatics at Coral World Ocean Park. Originally from the beautiful island of Antigua, I relocated to St. Thomas in 2017, just prior to hurricanes Irma and Maria. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands in 2022. My lifelong passion lies in understanding animal behavior and fostering meaningful human-animal relationships—especially with sharks, one of the species I’m most drawn to. As an animal trainer, I am committed to expanding my knowledge in wildlife care and conservation. I am particularly interested in the role and effectiveness of head start programs in animal rehabilitation and education, beginning with initiatives here at Coral World. Pursuing a master’s degree is the next step in my journey, equipping me with the tools and insight needed to make a greater impact in wildlife conservation and to further advocate for the preservation of marine species. |
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Mädchen Gebhard - Hello everyone! My name is Mädchen (May) Gebhard, and I was born and raised in northern California. I graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2022 with a B.A. in Environmental Studies and a minor in Earth Science. I knew that I was interested in pursuing a career that focused on ecology and conservation, but I didn’t discover my passion for the ocean until the end of high school when I became a certified scuba diver. In college, I became a divemaster and assisted teaching AAUS training, I interned as a scientific diver in the Santa Barbara Coastal Long Term Ecological Research Laboratory, and I volunteered as a California Reef Check diver, conducting biodiversity surveys and monitoring kelp forest ecosystems. After graduating, I became a PADI instructor and I am also working towards earning my USCG captain’s license! I’ve since been working in the Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences at Rutgers University in New Jersey as a scuba instructor, deckhand, and a volunteer for the Organic Geochemistry Sediment Analysis laboratory, where I’ve sorted sediment cores, identifying planktonic species to understand our climatic history in the oceans. I am beyond excited to join Dr. Tyler Smith’s lab where I will focus on coral reef ecology and the effects of invasive species.
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Samuel Gittens Jr - Hi, it's a pleasure meeting you all ! My name is Samuel Gittens Jr and I am from St. Croix, USVI. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology in December 2021 from the University of the Virgin Islands. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I sought opportunities to deepen my understanding of marine biology. I participated in various field studies, where I learned hands-on about the diverse species that inhabit our waters and the ecological challenges they face. Engaging in such research solidified my commitment to conservation and the importance of sustainable practices in Marine Research. I’ve always loved the ocean and my time at UVI has guided my interests into the world of corals. In January 2022, I started working in Dr. Marilyn Brandt lab conducting Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease treatment at St. John National Park service areas, and this year, I have started to assist in coral restoration. I am excited about the prospect of furthering my education and contributing to marine conservation efforts. I believe that the Master's program at UVI will provide me with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to the field of marine biology.
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Adam Krogmann - Hello, my name is Adam Krogmann. I was born in Florida, and then moved to Tennessee, and then to Georgia, and then back to Florida for college. I graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor’s in Science with a concentration in Coastal and Marine Biology. I also minored in Fine Arts. I love participating in research, and have worked in salt marshes with plants, fish, and oysters, on the beach with epibionts, and in freshwater swales with plants. I currently work on studying greenhouse gas fluxes in red and black mangroves. I am also currently working on a project where I illustrate different species of turtles for a sculptor so that she can use my illustrations as references to create scientifically accurate statues of these turtles. Outside of research and school I like to paint and go to the beach. Here in North Florida the mangroves are very small, so I am excited to work with fully grown trees down in UVI! |
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Gregory Pelose - Hi everyone! My name is Greg Pelose. I am originally from New Jersey but have been living in the Dominican Republic for the past 3 years doing coral restoration work. As a young child, exploring the aquatic ecosystems of New Jersey sparked my love for nature and the ocean. At 11 years old, I established my first coral reef tank in my room and have never looked back. The enjoyment and curiosity that came from growing corals in captivity drove me to study marine biology at Boston University. While at BU, I was a cross country and track and field athlete and completed an honors thesis analyzing Caribbean coral polyp volume. After BU, I moved to the Bahamas to do coral restoration work for a company called Coral Vita. I learned a lot during my time there before moving to the DR to manage a land based coral restoration lab. While here, it has been very hard to see large colonies of my favorite Caribbean corals fully die from Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. Utilizing our labs space, we were able to create a novel treatment that stops the progression of SCTLD from killing infected fragments of coral. I am excited to further study and learn while at UVI, especially focusing on how we can best protect and restore marine ecosystems. Outside of work and coral restoration, I love to surf, drink coffee and explore nature.
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Romina Ramos - Hello, I’m Romina! I was born and raised in Rhode Island. My passion for the marine environment blossomed during family vacations in Cabo Verde. During my undergraduate studies, I interned as a wildlife ranger for a loggerhead project on the island of Sal. This experience made me fall in love with sea turtle conservation, and I decided to pursue this path wholeheartedly. After college, I explored other loggerhead conservation projects on the island of Boa Vista and Maio. These experiences taught me about community-driven conservation and resilience in areas where resources are scarce. I then traveled to St. Croix to work with a different species: endangered leatherback turtles at the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. It's hard not to fall in love with these beautiful creatures! I returned for another season and made St. Croix my home. I can’t imagine my life without tropical fruits, breathtaking sunsets, the ocean, and sea turtles! I assist wildlife biologists with lizard surveys, bird surveys, bird banding, sea turtle monitoring, and restoration efforts. In my free time, I enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and playing board games and cards.
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Natalie Ritter - Hi everyone! My name is Natalie Ritter, and I currently live in Tacoma, Washington. I’ve always been drawn to the ocean and was raised in a family of nature enthusiasts, which deeply influenced my passion for studying marine life. In high school, I began volunteering with organizations like The Marine Mammal Center, as well as smaller, local wildlife rehabilitation clinics in my area. I graduated from Whitman College in 2023 with a degree in Biology. Most recently, I worked as a Waterfront and Program Assistant at the School for Field Studies Center for Marine Resources in Turks and Caicos. There, I had the opportunity to teach classes, lead dives, and assist with hands-on research projects focused on the local marine life. I’m now excited to pursue a graduate degree in Marine Biology to deepen my expertise and eventually combine my love for the ocean and animal care by pursuing veterinary school, with a specialized focus on marine organisms. Outside of academics and work, I love diving, hiking, and getting lost in a good book.
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Savanna Saunders - Hi! I am Savanna Saunders and I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. I completed my undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with minors in Marine Science, Spanish, and Biochemistry in May of 2025 at the University of Arizona. I have always been drawn to water despite growing up in a desert. Everytime I visited lakes in Michigan and the ocean in California, I was always interested in what was beneath the water. I got involved in the Marine Awareness and Conservation Society at UA where I learned about the vast opportunities in Marine Science and got to teach kids about the ocean. My research at UA involved studying coral response to supplemental light treatment at the Biosphere 2 as well as looking at the kinematics of Cassiopea. Outside of school, I love scuba diving, hiking, watching sunsets, and photography. I am excited to live near the beautiful ocean and expand my coral research and diving skills at UVI!
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Isabella Symington St. John - Hi! I’m Bella Symington St. John. I’m a proud first-generation college grad with a B.Sc. in Biology with a Psychology minor from Eastern Connecticut State University. I’ve had the chance to dive into some pretty cool research, like studying risk aversion and food preference in Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, cellular senescence in zebrafish, and cleaning stations and dune surveys in San Salvador, Bahamas. I’ve also really enjoyed working in conservation and education. During my time as an intern at Mystic Aquarium and as a Yale Conservation Scholar, I led educational programs, supported underrepresented youth initiatives, and did lots of bird surveys, which I absolutely loved!! I’ve always loved being in the ocean and exploring new places, which has taken me to England for study abroad, the Bahamas for a global field course, and the University of the Virgin Islands for a National Student Exchange. My time in the Bahamas and at UVI has strengthened my marine biology knowledge and desire to pursue this field! Coming back to UVI to continue my education feels like a dream come true, and I’m so excited to work with Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes in mangrove ecology. Please feel free to reach out and connect before orientation and classes start!
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Alexandria Tennant - Hey! My name is Alexandria Tennant, and I was born in Daytona Beach, Florida and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences from Savannah State University, where my love for the ocean only grew stronger. I currently work at the Georgia Aquarium, where I get to show my passion for marine life every day. Growing up near the beach, the ocean has always felt like home to me, and I’m beyond excited to now be studying at a university that has it right in its backyard, just like Savannah State. I look forward to diving into coral reef research in the U.S. Virgin Islands and expanding my skills both in and out of the water! Outside of school and work, I love roller skating, visiting amusement parks, going on long jogs, and relaxing at the pool, lakes or beaches. I’m happiest when I’m spending time with my family and friends or traveling somewhere new. I can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings at UVI! |
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Shelby Adkins, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hello! I’m Shelby, and I grew up in a small town in Iowa. I graduated from Iowa State in 2024 where I studied animal ecology and minored in biology; during this time I worked as carnivore/pinniped keeper and trainer at our state zoo, spent a semester in St. John, USVI doing mangrove restoration, and studied marine biology at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. After deciding to continue studying marine science, I applied to UVI, and now work in Dr. Kristin Grimes’ lab, who focuses on restoration, research, and education of USVI mangroves. My current research evaluates site assessments and co-restoration methods of coral-mangrove habitats, which will be proposed to our NPS for further monitoring, and implemented into our education program “Mangroves in the Classroom.” When I’m not in the lab or working, I love going for coffee/acai & beach days, hanging out with friends, and relaxing at home with our puppy!
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Taquanna Baron - Hi everyone! My name is Taquanna Baron, and I’m an international student from the vibrant island of Dominica. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands in May 2023, where my love for the marine environment truly took shape. I’m currently pursuing a Professional Science Master’s in Marine and Environmental Science at UVI, where I’m combining scientific research with outreach and communication. My internship project focuses on expanding the Mangroves in the Classroom program to St. Croix, helping local students connect with and care for their coastal ecosystems through hands-on learning and mentorship. I’ve always been passionate about protecting nature—whether through beach cleanups, tree plantings, or community education—and I’m excited to continue building a career that helps restore and protect the ecosystems that sustain us. Working with Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes and the GRROE USVI Mangroves team has given me the opportunity to grow as both a scientist and a science communicator.
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Chloé Camacho - Hi! I’m Chloé Camacho and I was born and raised on St. Croix, USVI. I’ve always had a love for the ocean, which is what led me to getting a B.S. in Marine Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands. While working as a Navigating Home Coral Restoration Workforce Fellow in Dr. Marilyn Brandt’s lab, I was inspired to join MMES to continue coral restoration research. My current research is focusing on how different biofilms on artificial reef structures can affect the growth rates of Montastraea cavernosa, Porites astreoides and Acropora palmata. When I’m not at work, I am either baking, on the soccer field, or at the beach with at least three cameras in my hand.
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Gillian Coleman - Hi! I’m Gillian and I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I grew up around the water and have always had a passion for the outdoors. I lived in Baton Rouge, LA, for four years and earned my B.S. in Coastal and Environmental Science with a minor in Biology from Louisiana State University. During my time there, I worked in the Seascape Ecology Lab studying coral reproduction and disease. I was able to apply histopathology and light microscopy laboratory techniques in multiple federal, state, and privately funded research projects. In my final year, I conducted an independent study of the effects of stony coral tissue loss disease on the reproduction of the coral Montastraea cavernosa. Currently, my research is focusing on the influence of thermal stress and symbiont strain variation on coral reproduction and larval development. Outside of marine science, I enjoy making sourdough, hiking, and college baseball (Geaux Tigers!).
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Emma Dlutkowski, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hello, I’m Emma! I am so excited to start graduate school at UVI this fall! I am currently in my eighth season working with sea turtle nesting. I have worked on nesting beaches in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and the USVI, and I have worked with leatherbacks, hawksbills, greens, and loggerheads.
I have always loved being in the water. I am originally from Michigan and grew up swimming in the Great Lakes. As I started my career, I realized I love the ocean, and that my passion is marine science. I look forward to studying marine science at the masters level at UVI!
In my spare time, I enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving - pretty much anything that involves being in the water! I am so excited to move to St. Thomas this fall, and I look forward to meeting everyone! |
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Nicholas Durgadeen - Hi everyone! My name is Nicholas C. Durgadeen and I am from the beautiful island of St. Croix, the sister island of St. Thomas. I completed my B.S degree in Marine Biology at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). Immediately after graduating, I interned at the National Park Service, where I was tasked with identifying the rate of growth of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) lesions on highly susceptible coral species within the park’s borders. In addition, I spent two years working as a Coral Restoration Specialist in Dr. Brandt’s lab. I am grateful for these experiences, because I know that they will make my transition into Dr. Brandt’s lab much smoother. As someone who tends to specialize in coral restoration and coral disease, I am eager to learn novel techniques on identifying and responding to coral disease and bleaching in Dr. Brandt’s lab. Outside of academia, I love going to the beach, hiking, freediving, underwater photography, and trying new foods. |
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Hannah Ferraro - Hi! My name is Hannah Ferraro, and I am from Glastonbury, Connecticut. In 2021, I received a Bachelor of Arts in Marine Science with a minor in Earth and Environmental Science from Boston University. As an undergraduate, I focused on the conservation and restoration of coastal ecosystems, particularly seagrass beds, where I participated in several transplanting projects across New England, studied microplastic accumulation, and worked with the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. After graduating, I worked in environmental education and outreach at several nonprofits, including Tampa Bay Watch, the Florida Aquarium, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Mystic Aquarium. At UVI, my research focuses on how physical disturbances affect the carbon storage capacity of Halophila stipulacea, a non-native seagrass species in the U.S. Virgin Islands. I am particularly interested in blue carbon systems and the role of seagrasses in climate change mitigation. I previously served as a Global Change Research Fellow with the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, where I explored the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems, biodiversity, and invasive species in the Caribbean. Through my work, I aim to support restoration and conservation strategies that enhance ecosystem resilience. |
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Miranda Goad - Hello Friends and Fins! I’m Miranda! I was born and raised on the Island of St. Thomas. I’ve always had a passion for science from childhood. Combine that passion with growing up in the Caribbean and of course I’m going to end up studying marine science! After high school, I lived on the coast of Maine for a few years where I got my Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Studies but came back home to finish my Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology at the University of the Virgin Islands. While in my undergrad, I had the valuable opportunity to work in the Mangrove Restoration Lab under Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes and Sandy Beach Ecology Lab with Dr. Guilherme Corte at UVI. I look forward to expanding my areas of research and fostering new connections along the way. I am enthusiastic to start my next adventure in the MMES Program! |
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Cheyenne Goodman - Hi, my name is Cheyenne, but I go by Lila! I was born in southern Virginia and moved to Norfolk, Virgina for my undergraduate. At Old Dominion University, I worked in a phytoplankton analysis laboratory and studied chemical and biological oceanography through the lens of harmful algal blooms and estuarine research. I became open water certified in SCUBA diving after I graduated at Old Dominion University and became AAUS certified during my masters at UVI. I work in Tyler Smith’s Coral Reef Resilience lab which monitors coral health across the Virgin Islands. My thesis research is investigating ecological factors, specifically damselfish predation and algal farms, affect coral health by monitoring coral plots at Brewers Bay. I enjoy snorkeling, beach combing, crocheting, watching movies, and crafts in my spare time.
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Keiley Gregory - Hi, I’m Keiley Gregory! I have dreamt of being a marine biologist for as long as I can remember, and I am thrilled to be joining such an amazing program! I am from a small beach town in Florida, and I am grateful to have spent my entire life in and around the ocean, swimming before I could walk, surfing since I was three years old, and SCUBA diving since I was 10. I recently obtained a B.S. in Marine & Coastal Biology from the University of North Florida, where I was part of a shark field research team. I am especially interested in research on how environmental changes and stressors impact marine species’ physiology, behavior, and vulnerability to anthropogenic threats. I am passionate about field research and love being immersed in the marine environment, and I aspire to conduct research that allows me to be in the ocean often. I am looking forward to moving to St. Thomas and meeting all of you in the fall! |
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Maya Hodder - Hey everyone! I’m Maya, and I’m originally from the West Coast of the U.S. I grew up in a small waterfront town called Gig Harbor in Washington and earned my degree in Environmental and Ocean Sciences from the University of San Diego in 2022. While in San Diego, I worked at an ocean engineering firm focused on beach geomorphology and coastal engineering. That experience sparked my interest in wave dynamics and coastal geology, which ultimately led me to pursue my master’s with Dr. Greg Guannel at the Caribbean Green Technology Center (CGTC). My research focuses on the interannual variability of beach profiles across the three U.S. Virgin Islands. I’m specifically examining how patterns of erosion and accretion—and the formation and migration of sandbars—relate to underlying benthic habitats such as seagrass beds and bare sand. By combining field observations with modeling approaches, I hope to better understand how natural coastal features influence sediment dynamics over time and under changing environmental conditions. Outside of research, I enjoy being out on the water, going to concerts/festivals, traveling, and vibing with friends. I’m excited to be a part of the MMES program! |
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Helen Holt, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hi, I’m Helen Holt. In high school, I interned at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, which convinced me that studying marine life was something I was passionate about. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. During that time, I also got my SCUBA certification and studied abroad in Australia, where I researched giant clams, intertidal ecosystems, and algal and fish ecology on coral reefs. I worked in a pre-clinical research lab in Ohio for a few years before coming to UVI for my master's. My other passions include traveling, hiking, and almost any sport. Currently, I am a Professional Science Master's student, working on creating the USVI Sargassum Working Group to coordinate research, share data, and connect with the community. I am interning at CWORI, a nonprofit located at Coral World Ocean Park on St. Thomas, to conduct Sargassum research. |
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Ranelagh Yzabelle Lauguico - Hi, my name is Ranelagh Yzabelle Lauguico, but I go by Abby, derived from the "ab" in Yzabelle. I was introduced to the underwater world by my dad, as scuba diving is one of his hobbies. Our entire family is scuba certified, but I have taken it to a deeper level—literally and figuratively. I was born in the Philippines but spent most of my life by the beautiful Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology at Silliman University in the Philippines. My research interests lie in marine parasites, with a specific focus on gnathiid isopods. Additionally, I am passionate about marine conservation and have immersed myself in various aspects of marine life, from working as an aquarist to handling inventory of ray and shark specimens to volunteering in a humpback whale research and interning for a coral recruits study. Beyond the sea, I find joy in hiking, photography and traveling. I look forward to pursuing my masters and sea-ing all of you soon at UVI! 💙 |
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Abigail Lewine - Hi everyone, my name is Abigail Lewine. I am originally from New Mexico, and I just received my Bachelor of Science in Marine Science from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo in 2024. During my undergrad I had the opportunity to work with Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary as a NOAA Hollings Scholar looking at instances of marine debris within the sanctuary. I also had the opportunity to spend some time in Greece working on a loggerhead sea turtle nesting monitoring and protection project which really sparked my interest in sea turtles. After this experience, I began working on my senior thesis project looking at trends in Fibropapillomatosis in green sea turtles on Hawaiʻi Island. As an MMES student, my research focuses on assessing the reproductive longevity of leatherback sea turtles nesting at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. |
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Kahlifah Powell - My name is Kahlifah Powell. I am 22 years old, and I am a Native Virgin Islander. Born on St. Thomas but grew up on St. John. I graduated from Ivanna Eudora Kean High School in 2019 and enrolled into the University of the Virgin Islands. At the University of the Virgin Islands, I was a part of the Emerging Caribbean Scientist program from 2019-2023. I worked with Dr. Ratchford and Dr. Brandt. I focused my time on mostly Coral Restoration. I graduated with a B.S. in Marine Biology and Environmental Science in 2023. I am a soldier in the Virgin Islands National Guard and gained an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S) degree in Intelligence through the Army. |
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Daizy Prieto-Murillo, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hi! My name is Daizy Prieto-Murillo. I’m a first generation Mexican-American born and raised in Southern California. I began volunteering in the veterinary field at the age of twelve and worked in the field as a veterinary assistant for the four years leading up to me moving to Saint Thomas. In 2022, I graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara with a BSc in Aquatic Biology. I am currently pursuing a Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree under the advisement of Dr. Marianne Moore and interning at Coral World Ocean Park. My work focuses on developing ethograms to quantitatively document dolphin behavioral interactions with environmental enrichment devices (EEDs). As part of my internship, I assist with daily husbandry tasks, gaining hands-on experience that offers valuable knowledge of the management and care of marine mammals. I aim to pursue a future in marine mammal rehabilitation and this work will combine my love of animals with my passion for marine science. |
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Ally Swan, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hi! My name is Ally Swan, and I’m from Clearwater, Florida. In 2023, I graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts and Science in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. As an undergraduate, I conducted a study on sex-based differences in chromatophore use for camouflage in shrimp living on octocorals. After graduation, I moved to the Florida Keys and began an internship at Mote Marine Lab’s coral reproduction lab, focusing on Acroporids affected by the 2023 mass bleaching event. Following this, I interned at the Coral Restoration Foundation in Key Largo to help further protect and restore the Florida Reef Tract. These experiences furthered my interest in coral reef conservation and restoration, which ultimately led me to get my master’s with Tyler Smith. Currently, my research focuses on thermal stress and coral recovery in Orbicella franksi across depth gradients. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with friends, being on the water, and traveling. |
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Madeline Talnagi - Hi everyone! My name is Maddie Talnagi, and I'm originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia. I graduated from the College of William & Mary in 2020 and have spent the past four years working in sea turtle conservation across the southeastern United States. My field experience includes nighttime saturation tagging, stranding response, and diurnal nesting patrols. After graduation, I spent a year on Maryland’s Eastern Shore working with a National Estuary Program to research diamondback terrapin nesting. I was first introduced to sea turtle conservation during my time at the Bald Head Island Conservancy, and from there I have continued to pursue sea turtle conservation and recovery. I have been fortunate to work with several organizations including the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, the Audubon Nature Institute, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. I’m particularly passionate about sea turtle stranding response and nesting ecology. As an MMES student working with Dr. Paul Jobsis, I’m partnering with the National Park Service to analyze spatiotemporal shifts in hawksbill sea turtle nesting at Buck Island Reef National Monument from 1988 to the present. My research explores how climate change is impacting the nesting success of this critically endangered species. Beyond my research you can still usually find me on the beach- combing for shells or birding.
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Current Students - Previous Cohorts
Sarai Hutchinson - Hey there! My name is Sarai Hutchinson and I was born and raised on the island of St. Kitts. I love staying active by going on hikes and snorkelling. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science in Spring 2022 at the University of the Virgin Islands. I have always considered myself to be an environmentally conscious individual; always wanting to find a way how I could help the environment. My interest in the marine sciences was triggered in in 2021 after I was a virtual guest student in the Amy Apprill lab at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) where I analyzed a time-series dataset to better understand potential SCTLD causes in Colpophylianatans corals around St. John, USVI. Post-graduation, I interned at The Nature Conservancy on St. Croix where I was a Coral Restoration Fellow in the Coral Innovation Hub. I was able to constantly learn new things, like coral spawning techniques, and garner skills in aquaculture. My interests in environmental restoration have led me to join the MMES program where I will be working with Dr. Kristin Wilson-Grimes to study whether Sargassum can be used in mangrove restoration.
Spencer Parr, National Science Foundation Scholar - Good day! My name is Spencer Parr, I was born and raised on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. I have had a passion for marine organisms and their ecology ever since I was tossed in the ocean with a mask and snorkel at the age of 2! Catastrophic hurricane damage to my island home prompted me to move to the mainland to pursue my undergraduate education. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science with a Marine Emphasis from Western Washington University. I have always had an ambition for identifying anything and everything my eyes saw while snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean Sea. I have a keen interest in understanding the form and function of a diverse array of marine organisms. Undergraduate coursework and research experiences (strengthened) broadened my understanding of the consequences of climate change and other anthropogenic effects on the marine biome and benthic communities. This knowledge and my environmental stewardship standpoint drives me to devote myself to marine scientific discovery, especially in the genre of marine community ecology, ecosystem health monitoring, coral conservation and restoration. My graduate studies in the MMES program at UVI and research assistantship in Dr Tyler Smith’s lab will further the breadth and depth of my marine science knowledge, expand my research experience and focus my research interests on coral reef community ecology.
Cole Sheeley, National Science Foundation Scholar - Good day everyone, my name is Cole Sheeley. I am from Rockland County New York, which is near New York City along the Hudson River. From a very early age I have been fascinated with the ocean and sea life. Following my passion, I graduated from Roger Williams University in Rhode Island with a bachelor’s degree in marine biology. During my time at the University, I was fortunate to study under Dr. Koty Sharp in her coral lab. After graduation I was accepted at MOTE Marine Laboratory in the Florida Keys as an intern. At MOTE I worked under Dr. Jason Spadaro in the crab lab. I was introduced to the ecology field and studied the connections between grazers along the reef. My experiences at Mote inspired my interest to pursue a career in coral reef conservation and restoration. I am beyond excited to be joining the MMEES cohort and look forward to working with Dr. Tyler Smith and Professor Doug Wilson on a joint underwater glider project.
LeeAnn Sheets, National Science Foundation Scholar - My name is LeeAnn Sheets, I am originally from Indiana but came to St. Thomas to finish my bachelor’s degree in marine biology. Prior to UVI I got an associate degree in biology and behavioral psychology. When I was a junior in high school my parents sent me to Zanzibar, Africa on a research trip to study how dolphins interact with tourists. Another aspect of this was trying to put regulations in place in order to protect the well-being of those dolphins. This experience really opened my world up and helped set me on the path that I am on today. Animal behavior is something that really interests me, why animals do the things they do and for what reasons. I am excited to expand my knowledge while studying the behavior of sponge decorator crabs under the mentorship of Dr. Cruz-Rivera.
Joshua Soll, National Science Foundation Scholar - I am a conservationist, shark advocate, SCUBA diver, outdoor enthusiast, artist, and photographer, among other things. Despite spending most of my life in the state of Georgia, living in Colorado is ironically how I discovered my passion to pursue marine science. I am intensely dedicated to environmental and social justice although the conservation of and advocacy for marine predators are my primary interests. In previous years, I worked for two marine science non-profit organizations, conducting work in fish conservation and reintroduction, microplastic pollution monitoring, public engagement, and marine science education. My native language is English, but I am also fluent in Spanish and enjoy every opportunity to chat with others. My current research at UVI focuses on identifying and classifying whale noise in the USVI and Puerto Rico using uncrewed autonomous underwater gliders in tandem with a low-frequency detection and classification algorithm.
Veronica Williamson, National Science Foundation Scholar - My name is Veronica Williamson. I was born in Amazonas, Brazil and grew up in Louisiana and Florida. Most of my life has been surrounded by water and aquatic life. Being so close and connected to the waters that sustained my communities made me fascinated with aquatic conservation. I received my Bachelors degree at Florida State University with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry and Psychology. After school, I taught Ecology and Chemistry in Mozambique, Africa for a year. I returned home due to COVID, and worked as as a coral restoration intern with Mote Marine Laboratory in the Florida Keys. There, my love for the reef grew and I began to apply to graduate schools to study coral restoration and disease. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, diving, kayaking, learning languages, and reading. In the future, I plan to get my PhD to be able to teach and research what I love!
Jordan Silva - Hey! My name is Jordan Silva and I am from Louisville, Kentucky. I graduated a few years ago with a B.S. double major in Biology and Environmental Science. Since I graduated, I have worked in environmental restoration, natural areas and land management, and in a microbiology lab. Ever since I was a kid, the ocean is where I wanted to be! I love surfing too, so if anyone ever needs a surf buddy, I am always down! Coming from Kentucky, there was not much opportunity to study marine life but, in my undergrad, I went on a trip to Belize and was studying coral diversity among the different reefs. This trip is what made me realize that I wanted to continue my education towards marine science and it was a great way to combine my love and passion for the ocean and career interests. So here I am now following that dream. I am always up to learn something new and offer a helping hand!
Corinne Johnson - Hi I’m Corinne! I am originally from Arizona but I grew up all over the world. I developed my love for the ocean and turtles when we took a family trip to Greece and I saw sea turtle conservation efforts on the beach. I graduated in 2017 with a double major in biology and sustainability from Arizona State University. While at ASU, I studied the social behaviours of resident hawksbill turtles off the coast of Maui, Hawai’i. During this project, I discovered my passion for behavioural ecology and the conservation impact it can have. At UVI, I will be studying territoriality of juvenile hawksbill turtles and I can’t wait to get started!
Lila Uzzell - Hey, my name is Lila Uzzell and I was born and raised on St. John, Virgin Islands. I received a B.S. in General Biology from the University of North Carolina at Asheville in 2017, where I researched two pitcher plants (Sarracenia) and their hybrids. After completing my degree, I bicycled across the USA and then began working for the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Conservation & Research Department as their Conservation Assistant & Field Biologist. I love working with rare and native plants, but also have a rooted passion for the marine life I was surrounded by growing up. After three years at the Botanical Garden, I returned to St. John in 2020. When not working at my local dive shop, you can find me outdoors hiking, diving, freediving, surfing, or hanging at the beach with friends! I am so excited to be home and become a part of UVI's MMES program. My hopes are to pursue a thesis surrounding coral reef ecology or mangrove ecology.
Laura Palomino - Hi everyone! My name is Laura Palomino, and I am originally from Cali, Colombia. Growing up in Miami, I developed my interest in marine science by snorkeling, scuba diving and sorting through sargassum on the beach. I graduated from the University of Florida (GO GATORS!) with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Marine Science and have been working in the marine conservation field for the past 4 years. I have enjoyed working for several non-profits, Florida Fish and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Biscayne National Park, and the University of Miami. My background in education, coastal ecosystems, and citizen science has led me to pursue a graduate degree with Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes. My research at UVI will be centered on mangrove restoration and community engagement.
Kayla Halliday, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hello all, my name is Kayla Halliday and I was raised here on St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. I have recently graduated with my B.S. in Marine Biology in May of 2020 here at the University of the Virgin Islands and I am very excited to be starting the MMES program. From the time I first learned to snorkel, around the age of 3, I have always been curious and mystified by the ocean and all the creatures that reside there. Over my adolescent and adult years, my passion to protect my home and the waters that surround it grew, which is one of the reasons why I am choosing to further my education. My career goal is to be an ecological consultant here in the Virgin Islands. I am very interested in land/sea interactions and human/sea life interactions. During my time in the MMES program I will be working with Dr. Kristin Wilson Grimes on advancing mangrove restoration. My thesis will focus on the bettering out planting for mangrove propagules.
Amanda Badai - Hi my name is Amanda Badai. I am originally from New Jersey, however I have resided in the Florida Keys for the past few years. I graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. I completed a thesis where I determined if nematocysts from Aiptasia sp. and Cassiopea sp. could inhibit bacterial growth. After college I interned for Mote Marine Laboratory in their Reef Restoration Program where I gained experience in coral husbandry. I then had animal care experience with parrots and manatees at Miami Seaquarium and learned about their manatee rescue program. After Miami I moved back to the keys to become a Biologist at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters where I gained experience in elasmobranch and tropical fish husbandry. Other specialties there were water quality and animal training and manatee rescue. I look forward to studying and gaining more experience in coral disease and research with the MMES program.
Andrew McGregor - Hello everyone, my name is Andrew! I grew up in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota and received a B.S. degree in biology with a minor in animal ecology from Iowa State University. My interest in marine sciences came from my undergraduate research experiences at The University of the South Pacific in Fiji and the University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Lab. I developed an interest in sea turtles while assisting in a project that studied green and hawksbill turtle foraging behavior around the outer Fijian Islands and have wanted to continue studying these organisms in a graduate program ever since. For my thesis project, I will be working with Dr. Paul Jobsis to study the in-water habitat use and movements of hawksbill sea turtles in Brewers Bay, USVI.
Naomi Scott - Hello! My name is Naomi Scott and I'm a graduate student in the MMES program at the University of the Virgin Islands. I'm originally from Chicago, IL but I earned my Bachelors degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science from the University of Tampa. I'm interested in renewable energy so my research revolves around the ways renewable energy sources can be used in aquaculture. In collaboration with Dr. Sennai Habtes I hope to build a portable aquaculture lab that is powered by solar photo voltaic energy and can be used in the field. When I'm not in class I enjoy teaching Science 100 to undergraduate students and researching new innovations in solar energy.
