Michelle Guins
Chair
B.S. in Wildlife Conservation from Virginia Tech, current M.S. student at Christopher Newport University with a thesis studying harbor seals
“I am really looking forward to this opportunity to represent the students of TWS and as the Chair of this WG. My passion lies in marine mammal biology, specifically with conservation and policy. Harbor seals have a special place in my heart but I love all marine species. I currently work with the U.S. Navy’s Marine Resources Group where I assist with the Marine Species Monitoring Program as well as various environmental compliance documents for acts such as NEPA, MMPA, & ESA. Outside of work & school I love to be outdoors, walking on trails with my dog or painting.”
Emily Williams
Chair-Elect
PhD Candidate at Georgetown University studying the movements of America’s favorite songbird, the American Robin
Emily first got involved in The Wildlife Society in undergrad, where she planned the University of Florida student chapter’s annual fundraiser, the Beast Feast. In the 15 years since, she has been involved in multiple TWS working groups and committees, and created the Early Career Professional Working Group’s Professional Development Grant in her tenure as Chair. When she’s not spying on the secret lives of robins, Emily loves storytelling, kayaking, hiking, reading, and dreaming of owning a bakery.
Jacob Tepsa
Past Chair
Recent graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a B.S. in Wildlife Ecology and Management
Jacob has been actively engaged with the executive board helping build partnerships with other working groups and establishing resources for student success in the wildlife field. He is staying involved in higher education where he works with the National Center for Landscape Fire Analysis at the University of Montana. Outside of SDWG, he enjoys hiking and volunteering in the community.
Kyp Meyers
Secretary
B.S. Student at University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point studying Wildlife Ecology & Management
“I currently co-lead research regarding flying squirrels and river otters in north-central Wisconsin! I’m also the secretary for my student chapter at UWSP. Outside of academics, I enjoy drawing, hiking, fishing, playing video games, hosting fundraisers for primate sanctuaries, and learning about primates (my favorite primate being orangutans or bonobos)!”
Chase Carey
Treasurer
Second year veterinary student at NC State University, where is also got my B.S. in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
“I have an interest in wildlife health, disease management, and One Health and I plan to be a state/federal wildlife veterinarian in the future. I really enjoyed serving on the SDWG team last year and helping implement the Trailblazer Grant, so I’m excited to be back again!”
Morgan-Rae Hertel
Early Career Professional Liaison
PhD student in Fish and Wildlife Biology at Colorado State University working with carnivore-livestock conflict with a focus on the recent wolf reintroduction in Colorado
“I am originally from NW Wyoming but live in Colorado. When I am not working you can find me outside hiking, climbing, and biking! Although recently I have been obsessed with my new hobbies of pottery and learning to play the banjo!! I am excited to serve the students of TWS as the Early Career Professionals Liaison!”
Amanda Harmon
International Liaison
Recent graduate of the Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences with a M.S. in Applied Ecology with research focused on common leopard activity in Nepal
“She first became involved with TWS while she was earning her undergraduate degree at Auburn University. Since then, she has continued her involvement by helping connect European students with TWS and offering her support to the creation of the Norway and Japan chapters. Now back in the States, she is currently working as a research technician with Alabama A&M University conducting field work as part of the ForestGEO project. During her spare time, she enjoys playing games with friends, bingeing books and TV series, and keeping up with her Duolingo streak.”
Daniel Rice
Board Member at Large
Recent B.S. graduate from Colorado State University
“I am now a field technician studying montane mustelids in northern California. I hope to use my past experience in TWS student chapter and state chapter leadership to continue supporting students in my new role as a Board Member At Large!”
Emily Michalzik
Board Member at Large
B.S. Student at University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point studying Wildlife Ecology & Management
She is particularly interested in insect ecology in an agricultural landscape. Her other involvement within TWS includes being the Undergraduate Representative for the North Central Section. Outside of TWS her hobbies include hiking, thrifting, and going to local music performances.