Emmy Stewart, MS student (co-advised by Lana Narine) (Natural Resources)

Kristin Wortham, MS student (Forestry)

My research focuses on understanding forestland owner decision-making and evaluating the effectiveness of technical assistance programs. I am particularly interested in how landowner decisions impact ecosystem services, human well-being, and livelihoods, with a focus on the Cooperative Extension System as a means of outreach and support. My research primarily examines forest management practices within the Southeast Region of the United States.

Before pursuing graduate studies, I earned a B.S. in Sociology and Economics from the University of West Georgia. Drawing from nine years of experience in the nonprofit sector, my background informs my approach to studying landowner behavior which emphasizes the social and economic factors that influence decision-making in forest management. My long-term goals include contributing to research and policy efforts that enhance sustainable forestry practices and improve the accessibility of technical assistance for underserved landowners.

Keerthi Krishna Devulapally, MS student (Natural Resources)

My area of study involves understanding community perspectives on environmental challenges in and around tiger reserve protected areas. I completed my undergraduate degree in B.Sc. Forestry in Telangana, India, where I developed a strong foundation in environmental science and sustainable resource management. I am committed to fostering a deeper understanding of conservation’s role in addressing environmental challenges and balancing ecological preservation with human livelihoods. Through my research, I aim to bridge the gap between conservation policies and the realities faced by communities living near protected areas, ensuring that both biodiversity and human well-being are prioritized.

Abigail League, MS student (Natural Resources)

My research focuses on understanding the impact of climate change on nature-based tourism on the Gulf Coast of Alabama through the perspective of tourism providers, who rely on resilient ecosystems to attract and sustain visitor flows and often observe and adapt to environmental changes that impact tourism. This research will be used to inform future adaptation strategies for the region. 

Before joining Auburn University in Fall 2024, I completed my undergraduate degree in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana, where I gained hands-on experience working as a research technician across several different projects and discovered my interest in the human dimensions of wildlife and natural resources. My future goals are to continue studying how humans relate to the natural world in the face of environmental changes and to help bridge the gap between the natural sciences and conservation social sciences through my research.

Joy Ogunsina, PhD student (Forestry)

My research explores career decision making and mental health among park professionals, including undergraduate students, alumni, and practitioners in the field. Building on my Master’s thesis, which explored how gender, race, and self-esteem shape career aspirations among high school students, my doctoral work continues to investigate the intersection of identity and career pathways with a specific focus on the park management profession.

Before beginning my doctoral studies at Auburn, I completed my M.A. in Sociology here and earned my B.Sc. in Sociology and Anthropology from Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria. I previously served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and worked as a Sustainability Intern at International Breweries in Nigeria, where I coordinated community engagement and environmental programs. Through my research, I hope to better understand workforce development in the parks and conservation sector while contributing to conversations around diversity, equity, and the well-being of those working in these important fields.