​Kirsten Schwarz
Associate Professor, Northern Kentucky University
Director, NKU's Ecological Stewardship Institute
Chair-elect, ESA Communication and Engagement Section

I'm an urban ecologist, environmental science educator, science communicator, environmental justice advocate, and city enthusiast.  Using a transdisciplinary systems approach, my research focuses on understanding how landscape structure affects ecosystem services in cities.

Current Research Students

Naomi Archibong
Major: Computer Science
Minor: Computer Information Technology, Mathematics

Bio: I'm a senior at NKU studying Computer Science, Computer Information Technology, and Mathematics. As a computer science major, I believe I can use my knowledge of technology to impact greenspaces in a positive way.  
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Favorite greenspace: My favorite greenspace is the Freedom Park in my hometown of Lagos, Nigeria. I frequently used to visit with my family when I was younger.
Jaeydah Edwards
Major: Biology
Minor: Environmental Science

Bio: I'm a sophomore at NKU studying biology and environmental science. My research incorporates many disciplines across campus and involves the community in improving both the environment and public health. As a biology major, I feel I can use my knowledge of ecology to share with the public the positive impacts greenspace can have on the environment.
 
Favorite greenspace: One of my favorite parks is Winton Woods in Cincinnati, Ohio. I have many memories of camping there with my uncle and cousins. I have also participated in cleaning up the park. Another one of my favorite parks is Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio where you can camp and enjoy the cliffs. ​
Enrica Jackson
Major: English
​Minor: Environmental Science

​Bio: I’m in my third year at NKU as an English Major with a minor in Environmental Studies. My passion for helping our natural and built environments prosper in a sustainable and healthy manner goes hand in hand with my love for writing and communication. My dream is to bridge the gap that some of us believe to exist between science and the humanities.  
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Favorite greenspace: Corbin KY, about 20 minutes from my hometown Barbourville, is home to the Cumberland Falls State Park. The numerous trails, swimming holes, and astounding views are all reasons to visit Cumberland Falls State Park.  Visiting the Falls in my youth facilitated the ambition I have to be an environmental steward within my community today.
Sarah Martin
Major: Computer Information Technology
​Minor: Creative Writing

​Bio: My life has been spent in the service of others via advocacy, volunteering, and the organizing of my intersectional communities. Ensuring a strong quality of life for all is my personal and professional goal. Being an ESI Scholar positions me to achieve that goal, as I'm interested in making technology and research work to improve lives and infrastructure. 

Favorite greenspace: My Grandparent's farm and the surrounding countryside in Central Kentucky was the first greenspace I explored and fell in love with. Honorable mention goes to: Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, Jacobson Park, The Pinnacles, and The Arboretum at UK. Now that I'm at NKU, I've enjoyed the gem that is Devou Park.
Elaina Staggs
Major: Environmental Science, Philosophy
​Minor: Biology

​Bio: I am a senior at NKU majoring in both environmental science and philosophy and minoring in biology. I have always been fascinated by the intricacies of the natural world and humanity's place in it. I hope to combine my understanding of ecological nature and human nature to positively develop the relationship between the two and subsequently create a healthier, more sustainable world for all life. 

Favorite greenspace: One of my favorite spots is California Woods Nature Preserve. I volunteer there whenever I get the chance and find great joy in walking the trails that I have helped to maintain. I am amazed that such a beautiful patch of forest can exist in the middle of an urban environment, yet feel so secluded from  the bustle of the city. 
​Interested in Joining the Lab?
​Former Research Students

​Jason Bellis, Molly Brubaker, Kyle Conley, Brittany Holton, Emily Jones, Emily Keener, Kathryn Keefe, Taylor Kopeschka, David Koenig, Beth Knox, Brennen Kuhn, Adam O'Brien, Valerie Rice, Alexis Sharp, Jackson Shown, Sydney Smith, Haylee Taylor, Victor Vanover, Nicholas Wainscott, Matthew Winkler, Jacob Webster, Brittany White, Kelsey Zalack