College of Science & Mathematics
Master of Science in Marine & Environmental Science
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Shelby Adkins, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hi everyone! My name is Shelby Adkins and I graduated from Iowa State University this May, where I majored in animal ecology with a minor in biology. Over the past few years I have spent a semester working on St. John island doing mangrove restoration, as well as attended the University of Hawaii at Manoa to focus on marine biology. After visiting the islands for an internship, I couldn’t wait to see what opportunities may bring me back to continue studying marine and environmental science. I am extremely excited to attend UVI this upcoming fall where I’ll be working with Dr. Grimes and learning more about mangrove ecosystems. I can’t wait to meet you all and look forward to creating some amazing friendships!
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Taquanna Baron - Hi everyone! My name is Taquanna Baron and I am an international student from the beautiful island of Dominica. I completed my undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in May of 2023 at the Univeristy of the Virgin Islands. I have always possessed a love for nature but my love for the marine aspect of our ecosystem began when I attended UVI. I am very aware of the issues we have in the environment and I plan on dedicating my life’s work to helping make things better. I have worked with groups back home in Dominica to do beach clean ups and also helped with the planting of trees and shrubs to help beautify different communities. Working with Dr. Kristen Wilson-Grimes in her laboratory will allow me to expand my horizon in the marine aspect of science and also focus on the conservation of our precious mangroves.
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Chloé Camacho - Hi! I’m Chloé Camacho and I was born and raised on St. Croix, USVI. Most of my baby pictures are of me at the beach and I’ve always had a love for the ocean, which is what drew me back to the VI after attending college for a year in the states. Being back home allowed me to intern at many different places like the East End Marine Park and the Nature Conservancy on St. Croix and find my love for coral reefs. I graduated undergrad from UVI with a B.S. in Marine Biology. I officially moved to St. Thomas after undergrad to work as a Coral Restoration Fellow under Dr. Marilyn Brandt, which is how I was inspired to further my education and join the MMES program. I’m excited to continue working in the Brandt lab and work on developing different coral restoration techniques.
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Gillian Coleman - Hi everyone! My name is Gillian Coleman, and I am from Hurley, MS. I grew up on the Gulf Coast and have always loved being on the water! I’ve lived in Baton Rouge, LA the last four years, and I recently graduated from LSU with a B.S. in Coastal & Environmental Science and a Biology minor. I have worked in the Seascape Ecology Lab since 2020 under Drs. Dan Holstein and Ashley Rossin studying disease and reproduction in different coral species. I’ve developed a huge love for our reef systems and want to be apart of protecting them for future generations! I’ve also worked for LSU Baseball since 2021, and love all things college baseball! I am beyond excited to continue my research in marine science at UVI, and can’t wait to meet everyone! |
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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 everyone, my name is Hannah Ferraro and I am originally from Connecticut. In 2021 I received my Bachelor of Arts in Marine Science and Minor in Earth and Environmental Science from Boston University. As an undergrad, I worked primarily on conservation and restoration efforts of coastal ecosystems. My focus was seagrass beds, where I participated in transplantings and studied microplastic accumulation via epibionts. After graduating I moved to Florida where I now work as an education specialist at a local nonprofit called Tampa Bay Watch and the Florida Aquarium. I have also worked at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and volunteered at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. I am beyond excited to continue my journey as a scientist, researcher, and student at UVI as a Global Change Research Fellow with the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center. With this fellowship, I intend to continue researching how coastal ecosystems, such as seagrass and sandy beaches, are impacted by climate change and how this affects coastal biodiversity in the USVI. |
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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 everyone! My name is Cheyenne, but I go by Lila as well. My love for the ocean stems from a lineage of fisherman and several nights watching marine conservation programs. I am from Chester, Virginia and recently graduated from Old Dominion University (Yay!). I used to work at a phytoplankton analysis laboratory, and realized the impact of microscopic organisms in the ocean. I wish to pursue more into the effects of harmful algae blooms and monitoring the state of coral reefs. I am hopefully, starting my diving career this summer! |
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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 - Hi everyone! My name is Maya Hodder and I’m from Gig Harbor, Washington. In 2022, I received my BA in Environmental Science from the University of San Diego and have been living in the San Diego area since then. I’ve had a lot of interdisciplinary experiences in both undergrad and in my early career, as I’ve worked in the fields of animal behavior, aquaculture, wetland and reef restoration, and beach and tidal monitoring. My recent experiences in environmental monitoring and restoration has led me to begin working with Dr. Kristin Grimes, and I couldn’t be more excited! Outside of school, I love to snorkel, hike, go camping, go to concerts, and hang out with friends. |
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Helen Holt, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hello, my name is Helen Holt. I have been interested in marine biology since I was a kid; interning at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland in high school convinced me that studying marine life was something I was passionate about. Therefore, I got 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 and intertidal and coral reef habitats. Since graduating, I have been working in a pre-clinical research lab. My other passions include traveling, hiking, and almost any sport. I am beyond excited to continue learning at UVI! |
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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. While in my undergrad, I developed a strong love for snorkeling, and spending as much time as I could out on the water. 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. I am incredibly excited to continue my passion for marine biology here at UVI and I look forward to meeting you all! |
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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. Despite living in So-Cal, I grew up in the high desert surrounded by nothing but mountains and Joshua trees, 80 miles from the nearest beach. I was exposed to veterinary medicine from a young age and always knew I wanted to work with animals in some way. I’ve worked/volunteered on & off in the vet field for about 12 years now. My interest in marine biology sparked my senior year of high school, where I took marine bio as an elective. I graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara in 2022 with a B.S. in Aquatic Biology and became Open Water Diving certified this past October. Though I’m not entirely sure what I intend to pursue in marine biology, I’m very eager and excited to be exposed to different fields of research at UVI. Can’t wait to meet everyone this fall! |
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Ally Swan, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hey there! My name is Ally Swan and I’m from Clearwater, Florida. Growing up just five minutes from the ocean, I spent much of my childhood on the water. In 2023, I graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to delve into marine science research, by conducting a study on a species of sea whip. After graduating, I moved to the Florida Keys and began an internship at Mote Marine Lab’s coral reproduction lab, focusing on Acroporids affected by the largest bleaching event on record in the Keys. 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, and I’m excited to continue this journey by joining the MMES program and meeting everyone! |
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Madeline Talnagi - Hi everyone! My name is Maddie Talnagi and I am from Virginia Beach, Virginia. I graduated from the College of William & Mary in 2020 and have spent the last four years working with sea turtles! I’m deeply passionate about nighttime tagging and sea turtle stranding. I am currently spending my summer as a turtle technician for the US Fish and Wildlife Service on Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge in Charleston, South Carolina.
When I’m not working, you can still usually find me on the beach! I love hiking, running, and getting crafty with the things I find in nature! I’m SO excited to meet everyone and continue my education this fall! :)
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Abigail Gretta - Hello, Abigail Gretta here! I graduated with a B.S. in Marine Biology from the College of Charleston. I had the opportunity to join a two-year phenological study on the invasive red alga Gracilaria vermiculophylla along the Charleston intertidal mudflat. This study allowed us to explore how each life phase contributed to its nonnative range. Previously, I interned at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute in Little Cayman, where I participated in reef surveys, tended to the Acropora cervicornis outplantings, and assisted in educational outreach and diving programs. As a PADI Instructor and USCG Captain, I've been fortunate enough to travel and work in various parts of Mexico and the USVI, providing me with exposure to different aspects of tropical coral reefs. I'm beyond excited to return to St. Thomas and join Dr. Tyler Smith's lab, where I will assist in a study to calibrate near coastal observations from RS satellites to accurately depict water quality and benthic characterization for the USVI waters. |
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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 Colpophylia natans 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. |
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Jesse Joy, National Science Foundation Scholar - Helloooo! I'm Jesse Joy, originally from Connecticut, but I've called the Florida Keys home for the last nine years. Armed with a bachelor's degree in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and a minor in Environmental Anthropology from UConn, my academic journey led me to study the feeding behavior of hummingbirds in the Colombian cloud forest, resulting in publication. Now an aspiring marine biologist, I've rescued injured birds, sea turtles and manatee, surveyed fish, planted corals, and conducted independent dolphin research projects in the Florida Keys. I was selected for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council and founded Unbound Joy in Nature, a nonprofit organization that utilizes my USCG Master Captain 100T endorsement for environmental education and conservation. I firmly believe that people protect what they love, and I'm determined to inspire a collective passion for our earth's beauty and preservation. I’m also eager to gain a deeper understanding of marine population declines and ultimately make waves in environmental science with the MMES program. I'm an avid sailor, free diver, and fly fisherman, and will take any opportunity available to hit the water and explore. |
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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. |
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Zoe Price, National Science Foundation Scholar - Zoe Price grew up in Alexandria, VA and attended Emory University in Atlanta, GA for her bachelor’s in environmental science. She developed a passion for research doing lab work at school and discovered her love for marine science during a summer research program at the University of Washington’s Friday Harbor Labs. In addition to being in the lab, Zoe loves spending time outdoors running, hiking, and enjoying nature. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Joshua Soll, National Science Foundation Scholar - I am a conservationist, shark advocate, SCUBA diver, outdoor enthusiast, and photographer. 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 conservation and advocacy for all species, though marine predators are my primary interest. In previous years I have worked for two marine science non-profit organizations, conducting work in fish conservation and reintroduction, microplastics 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. |
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Courtney Tierney, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hey there! My name is Courtney Tierney. I am originally from coastal New Jersey. I received my B.S. in Marine Science and Environmental Studies from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. While there, I had the opportunity to study coral ecosystems in Honduras, the British Virgin Islands, and as a NOAA Hollings Scholar in American Samoa. After graduating, I interned for a coral restoration non-profit in Haiti and entered the workforce. I moved here to St. Thomas in 2022 to work for the USVI Department of Planning and Natural Resources as the Coral Disease Response and Restoration Coordinator which inspired me to further my education at UVI. I am looking forward to working with Dr. Robin Smith investigating improved coral restoration techniques. |
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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! |
Current Students - Previous Cohorts
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!
James Powell, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hello! My name is James, and I hail from Warrenton, Virginia. My love for the ocean developed while completing my SCUBA instructor rating in Cozumel, Mexico in 2019. It was then that I decided to return home to complete my bachelor's degree in Environmental Science at the Virginia Commonwealth University. I am excited to be joining the MMES program and aim to build a career that will enable me to share my passion of the underwater world through research! During my time at UVI, I will be working with Dr. Cruz-Rivera on the degradation models of sargassum species and the effects of golden tides on Caribbean coastal sustainability.
Gregory O'Neill,National Science Foundation Scholar - My name is Gregory O’Neill. I am from Mesa, Arizona, and graduated from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor’s in biology. I was born in Rocky Point, New York which is where I gained an interest in marine science. I am currently a Research Assistant in Dr. Richard Nemeth’s Lab. My thesis will be investigating the effects an invasive seagrass (Halophila stipulacea) has on the growth, diet, and feeding behavior juvenile Yellowtail Snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus).
Madison Miele, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hey, I’m Madison Miele! I’ve lived in Washington State my whole life. I just recently graduated from Western Washington University with a bachelors degree in marine biology in 2022. I have loved marine life ever since I was a kid, especially when I started snorkeling and scuba diving. Last summer I studied abroad in Turks and Caicos where I conducted research on sharks, turtles, and rays! I fell in love with Caribbean waters and all the animals in it. Along with that, I have interned with a pacific mammal research team in Washington State where we study harbor porpoises and seals. Everything in the ocean amazes me and I can’t wait to have more experiences in the Virgin Islands! Im very interested in shark or tropical fish research. I’m super excited to get a Masters in Marine and Environmental Science at UVI and can’t wait for the adventures that come with it!
Stefanie Maxin - Hi everyone! My name is Stefanie, and I’m originally from Texas where I graduated with a degree in Marine and Freshwater Science from the University of Texas in Austin in 2021. During my time as an undergraduate, I worked on a few different projects which mainly centered on using passive acoustics to monitor populations of marine fish species, and analyzing the behavior and cognition of marine mammals. Following graduation, I worked for the Marine Mammal Center’s Monterey Bay location where I assisted in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine mammals (mainly sea lions!), and furthered my passion for marine science and conservation efforts. I am looking forward to starting this next chapter of my academic career, and will be working with Dr. Rick Nemeth’s lab. My project will consist of using passive acoustic data to both help better understand the recovery of the local Nassau grouper population, and to quantify sounds made during the spawning activity of yellowtail parrotfish.
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!
Avery Coble, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hi! My name is Avery Coble. I moved to St. Thomas from Tarpon Springs FL, but have lived all over. I graduated from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Marine Biology. While attending, I volunteered on the 100-island challenge run by Dr. Stuart Sandin, where I found my passion for corals. During this time, I also interned at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium working on baseline data collection, and with Manta Trust in Micronesia studying the reef manta ray's migration patterns. After I graduated, I worked for a while at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where I primarily worked on research and education. I am very excited to continue my education and be a part of the MMES program.
Darian Braddy, National Science Foundation Scholar - Good day! My name is Darian Braddy. I am from Savannah, GA, where I received my B.S. in Marine Sciences and a Data Analytics certificate at Savannah State University this year. I have done research on sea level rise and the effects on the local Savannah oyster population. I also did two research projects on small-scall vertical and horizontal migrations of the periwinkle snail related to tidal cycles and heights. I spent last summer on Ossabaw Island, GA as a sea turtle technician. I love diving and my goal at the University of the Virgin Islands is to study coral reef restoration and expand my knowledge from tidal marsh environments to tropical/mangrove environments. I also love coastal tourism and informing the public about the benefits of the ocean and the dire need to ensure marine health. I am super excited for this next step in my marine journey!
Adeline Shelby, National Science Foundation Scholar - My name is Adeline Shelby and I am originally from Dallas, Texas! I turned a 4-hour drive to the nearest beach to 15-minutes when I decided to go to the University of Miami. I graduated in 2019 with a B.S. in Marine Science and Biology. During my time there I helped conduct research on staghorn coral in an ocean acidification laboratory, interned at the Center for Sustainable Development in Cape Eleuthera, Bahamas, and studied abroad in the Galapagos Islands. I've become particularly interested in coral conservation and restoration. So, I am happy to be interning with Coral Restoration Foundation in Key Largo, Florida this summer where I get to assist with reef monitoring, harvesting, and outplanting! I'm very excited to get to continue this kind of work as a research assistant for Dr. Tyler Smith.
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.
Davis Strobel, National Science Foundation Scholar - Hey, I’m Davis Strobel from Charleston, South Carolina. I grew up in a Scouting family, which catalyzed my love for the natural world, and through scuba diving at a young age, I found my life goal of becoming a marine scientist. I attended Arkansas State University for my B.S. in Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation while playing rugby full-time. Since graduating in 2019, I’ve been fortunate to work at some fantastic marine labs in Puerto Rico, the Florida Keys, Hawaii, and the Virgin Islands. Some of my work experience to date has included topics on parasitology, fish behavior, microbial ecology, coral restoration, aquaculture, and educational outreach. My favorite part about this career path is my ability to make direct impacts in and out of the water; whether it’s outplanting coral or teaching youth about marine conservation, I’m in love! I hope to one day start an organization focusing on coral restoration, educational outreach, and eco-tourism..
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.
Zachary Gregory,National Science Foundation Scholar -My name is Zachary Gregory. I am from Washington State and received a bachelor’s in marine biology from Western Washington University. During my undergrad I found myself fascinated by habitat forming species such as anemones and corals. This fascination led me to many opportunities such as running independent experiments on coral bleaching in the Sea of Cortez and spent a summer aiding in propagation of corals such as Acropora Palmata and Acropora Cervicornis through MOTE Marine Laboratory’s Coral Reef Restoration Internship. I also spent my time volunteering in aiding WWU’s Surfrider Club with beach cleanups and organizing public outreach events. I have spent the past two years working with one of Washington’s native tribe where I have worked on monitoring salmon populations, restored riparian habitat, and aided in climate modeling. I am excited that my path has brought me to the MMES program at UVI, and for the experiences I’ll get during my time at St. Thomas.
Shamoy Bideau - Hey, what's good? My name is Shamoy Bideau, I’m from St. Croix, but was raised in St. Lucia, where I first found my love for the ocean attending youth forums surrounding ocean resource conservation. I graduated from the University of the Virgin Islands with my B.S. in Marine Biology in 2020. I am a member of Dr. Marilyn Brandt’s lab, as a Research Assistant on the SEAS coral restoration project. Through my time at UVI, I amassed new skills which I think are beneficial to my future, but I'm not done yet - always up for learning something new. I'm excited to see what this new chapter holds for me.
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.
Olivia Diana - Good Day! My name is Olivia Diana. I am originally from Massachusetts but finished my undergrad at Virginia Wesleyan University with a B.S. in Biology. Three months later I moved to Saint Thomas, USVI to pursue my masters and work with Dr. Cruz Rivera on comparing beaches for microplastic density depending on the sargassum density. I completed research on using death assemblages as indications of environmental recovery and presented the work at the International Crustacean Conference 9 (ICC9) in May 2018. I decided to study in the Virgin Islands after study away trips to both Belize and Costa Rica taught me about the ecological importance of protecting the tropical coasts. Contact: olivia.diana@students.uvi.edu
