Q&A story and graphic by Techia Brown
Tell us about your background and research interests.
I obtained a bachelor’s degree in animal and dairy sciences with a minor in international studies in agriculture from Mississippi State University in 2021 after obtaining an associate's degree with a pre-veterinary emphasis from Jones County Junior College in 2019. I am currently pursuing my master's with an emphasis on veterinary medical science with a special interest in parasitology of marine mammals while working full-time. I began my career at MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) as a student worker in the diagnostic lab and was able to move up to full-time staff upon graduation. I was primarily a necropsy technician but assisted in many other areas of the diagnostic lab as well and was there for two years full-time before moving to the Global Center for Aquatic Health and Food Security (GCAHFS) within CVM in May of 2023. Some of my research interests include marine mammal diets, infectious diseases, and marine parasitology.
What is your role at the GCAHFS?
My role at GCAHFS is one of many hats. I provide necropsy support for marine mammals and sea turtles as well as perform data upkeep and mining for funded research projects associated with the Mississippi Sound that include marine mammals and sea turtles. Additionally, I collect samples to analyze the population, habitat, and health of live and deceased animals. I provide support to not only our faculty and staff here in Starkville but also those who are located on the coast of Mississippi.
From your perspective, how is GCAHFS “taking care of what matters?”
Our faculty and staff handle a diverse range of responsibilities, everything from diagnostics on marine mammals and endangered sea turtles that are sentinels to their aquatic habitat to rehabbing and releasing sea turtles. The work that we do educates the public on key species that help regulate ecosystem life cycles, their dietary requirements, and the pollution in the animal’s ecosystem. Important One Health initiatives, such as microplastics, water toxicology, and infectious disease, are all roles that we research and educate about! While we focus on the animals, oftentimes, what is occurring within our Mississippi Sound also affects the communities that interact with it as well.
What are your hobbies or activities outside of work?
Outside of work, I am just as busy as I am at work. Just some of my hobbies include horseback riding and driving, dog sports, reading, and gaming. I love to travel and often accomplish that by attending dog shows with my Dalmatian as we travel the United States. We have currently traveled to 10 states together and hope to add more! You’ll often find me outdoors with the dogs or horses, exercising after work and competing on the weekends.
What is your favorite seafood?
I am not a huge seafood eater, but fried catfish and Cajun boiled shrimp are my two favorites.
Published April 22, 2025