3 years in the making

Mar 14, 2018

266

3 years in the making 
Flyer for my defense featuring Mr. Dorsey (upper left), one of my favorite LOWA.
Well guys, I did it. On March 12, 2018, I presented a public seminar and successfully defended my master's thesis! While the diploma won't come till May, I have officially 'passed' and am now a Master of Science (hehe). There are still edits to make and data to publish, but right now, it feels good know I didn't fail.
I have so many people to thank (and I won't burden you with that now) but I do want to acknowledge each and every one of YOU who helped make this project possible. I quite literally could not have done this without your support and encouragement.
From the bottom of my heart and with the whole of my being--THANK YOU.
*Look for more posts soon about what I found! But for now, it's back to editing!

Gabriel, Uschi, and 9 others like this.

9 comments

Join the conversation!Sign In

Kathy Orders LaneBacker

CONGRATULATIONS, Lee!!! That is quite an accomplishment! David and I look forward to hearing about the results of your thesis. As we have watched the decimation of the hemlock in the Smokies, we have questioned the effects on species and ecosystems.

Mar 18, 20180

Laura O'ConnorBacker

Congratulations Lee! Your hard work and perseverance has paid off!

Mar 16, 20181

Linda WiseheartBacker

I’m so proud of you, Lee! Congratulations! 👩‍🎓

Mar 15, 20181

Cindy WuBacker

Congratulations Lee! 🎉✨

Mar 15, 20180

Tiffany BeachyBacker

Hip hip, HOORAY!!! I can't wait to see you and hear the results next week! :) <3

Mar 15, 20181

Stacey WhetstoneBacker

Congratulations, Lee!

Mar 15, 20181

Joan SwensonBacker

Congratulations Lee. I’m so proud of your accomplishment!! You have worked hard for this and you can now relax a bit before your next project or adventure.

Mar 14, 20181

Wilfred PostBacker

Congratulations. I look forward to hearing your second public presentation next week - at Sugarlands VC - right? I would also like to see a pdf of your thesis after it has been accepted by the university. Mac

Mar 14, 20181

Tory AdcockBacker

Congratulations!

Mar 14, 20181

About This Project

How does hemlock tree decline impact bird bioindicators and ecosystem condition?

Arkansas State University

An invasive insect, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), is causing Eastern Hemlock tree decline in the Appalachian Mountains. The Louisiana Waterthrush (LOWA) is a bird that may indicate the degree to which HWA threatens riparian ecosystems with declining hemlock. By studying LOWA habitat use and reproductive success, I aim to determine how hemlock decline affects the birds and riparian ecosystem condition. Such knowledge is important for conserving the rich biodiversity of the Appalachians.