ENV undergrads at the Northeast Natural History Conference
Environmental Studies students and professors presented at the 2025 Northeast Natural History Conference in Springfield, MA.
Three ENV students and two faculty presented their research this year at the Northeast Natural History Conference.
“Attending the Northeast Natural History Conference introduced me to a community of impressive local scientists. I was able to share my research with potential future collaborators and gain experience presenting in a professional setting. I met a variety of mutual friends, got to present my research to my post-grad employers, and was able to connect with a professor who had interest in advising me through a master’s degree. I would encourage every environmental studies student to attend this conference. You will gain practical skills that allow you to transition out of the undergraduate stage of your life and into your career,” said Robyn Graygor.
Modesto Fontanez III presented a group project from Wildlife Ecology “Birds Show Neutral Preference for Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, in a Mix Missing Their Red Coloration”.
Modesto said “NENHC was my first conference experience, and I didn’t know how early I was getting up, but I would do it again for this. I really learned a lot about other topics, especially about what people are researching in the nearby area, and it was a good networking experience too. Some of the information is even relevant to my senior project! The days were long, but I never felt bored during the conference, it was actually the opposite. Given the opportunity I’d absolutely love to go again next year.”
Indi Richardson also presented a group project from Wildlife Ecology “Autumnal Photosynthesis Duration Varies Amongst Native and Invasive Maples in Urban and Forest Environments”. We are super proud to report that Indi won second prize in the undergraduate poster presentation! Details and her winning poster are displayed on the NENHC website.
Indi summarized her experience: “Attending the Northeast Natural History Conference was an incredible experience. It was amazing to be surrounded by so many like-minded individuals who came together to share scientific research. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my research at such an organized and engaging event, and I plan to return in the coming years.”
We would all like to thank the generous endowment from Lucille Werlinich that made this conference possible!