Photography by LORI SPARKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
University of Central Arkansas | Director – Environmental Science Program & Professor of Biology
BEGINNING INTERESTS
As an undergraduate, I was set on pursuing a medical degree. Although I had grown up in the Ozarks and spent much of my childhood outside, I never realized that could translate into a career. My sophomore year in college, one of the professors offered me a position in his lab to collect crappie and put them in a swim tunnel (basically a treadmill for fish). I instantly fell in love with the field of fish biology.
CAREER EVOLUTION
During my junior and senior year of college, I conducted independent research studying swimming in schooling minnows. Both my graduate research projects were focused on caves, evolution and conservation. Obtaining a job in academia allowed me to teach and work with students to develop that same passion. Working specifically with the Environmental Science Program at UCA has allowed me to help students find their path and passion in a broad, rewarding field.
LOVE THE WORK
This is so easy – the students! I am always amazed by the work ethic and tenacity of the UCA students. They inspire me on a daily basis. My biggest legacy won’t be in my research and independent accomplishments but in what my students go on to accomplish.
SURPRISING BUT TRUE
I think the biggest surprise is that you CAN have a work life balance. It isn’t always easy, but it is possible. My kids grew up outside in the streams alongside us – it can be a very family friendly career path! I am lucky to have a partner who is also my colleague, and we enjoy working together on a daily basis.
These wonder women are redefining what “full STEAM ahead” means in Arkansas. With exciting careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics – each reflects WIT (Women in Tech) and true grit for making the most of every opportunity. Here’s to the powHER of knowledge.
