Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Abigail's leadership within the CAFLS community has been transformative. As the secretary of the Clemson Pre-Veterinary Club, Abigail implemented monthly newsletters to support and guide pre-vet students navigating the competitive admissions process. She also mentors incoming AVS freshmen as the academic co-chair of the Students in Animal and Veterinary Science (SAVS) living-learning community.
Horticulture
Sebastian maintains an excellent academic record while participation in applied research experience on campus in the plant tissue culture lab, and last summer studied silicon uptake in sunflowers while abroad in Spain with the FLORECE program. Sebastian’s academic career has been tempered by campus and community service. He is a member of MANRRS and was recently promoted to Executive Board Gardens Manager where he maintains the edible garden year-round, raises funds, and delivers presentations to college instructors, students, and visitors.
Horticulture
Shelby engages in academic and service programs with cheerfulness, accuracy, and intelligent scholastic and practical applied skills. She has participated in multiple campus and community landscape installations as a member of the Native Plant Club and contributes to the leadership of the club by offering immediate and future management strategies. Shelby is also a valued member of the Soils team Creative Inquiry, "Muddy Tigers"
Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Kourtney is a bright and committed student both in and outside the classroom. In addition to earning exceptional grades in her rigorous classes, she was an active member of the SAVS Living Learning Community, a member of the Clemson Pre-Vet Club, Block and Bridle and the Secretary of the Clemson Walk for Water Club.
M.S. Candidate in Forest Resources
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Forestry and Environmental Conservation
Course Taught:
FNR 2040: Soil Information Systems
Research:
Davis showed an unparalleled level of care, dedication, and support for 60 students in four lab sections. He led one of the most critical aspects of the course--hands-on labs providing students with necessary skills for future careers. Davis also helped develop an online teaching module to help students understand the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in relation to course material resulting in a publication highlighting this innovative teaching method. Nominator Dr. Mikhailova writes, “He is a gifted teacher who has helped students comprehend and integrate complex concepts into their education and research.”
Ph.D. Candidate in Animal & Veterinary Sciences
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Research:
Erika has been instrumental in the AVS department, stepping up as Instructor of Record for multiple equine courses, ensuring high-quality instruction. Her real-world industry experience, passion, and commitment to student success make her an outstanding mentor and teacher.
Beyond the classroom, Erika leads 12 undergraduate researchers and manages two Creative Inquiry projects, integrating students into her research and inspiring many to pursue graduate school. She played a pivotal role in implementing the Bridging the Gap REEU program, guiding students through research, data analysis, and professional development.
Ph.D. Candidate in Plant & Environmental Sciences
Research:
Johanna began her PhD in January 2023 in Plant and Environmental Science, and since then has published six first author peer-reviewed papers in two of the best plant pathology journals worldwide and just as many technical publications. Johanna is a true scientist constantly asking questions and probing for answers. Her publications cover novel concepts with great promise for practical applications and have led to her being an invited and featured speaker. She independently designs and conducts her experiments and is committed to solving emerging problems and motivates other people in the lab to join her in her quest to achieve greatness.
Ph.D. Candidate in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology
Research:
One faculty member described Miriam as one of the brightest and most productive students in the last decade and a role model for peers. Her research on alligators as pollution indicators spans eight states and over 30 partnerships. In just one year, she has handled hundreds of alligators and secured multiple fellowships and grants. She leads a fully enrolled Creative Inquiry course, providing undergraduates with hands-on training in microplastics analysis and alligator diet studies. She also mentors students to present at professional conferences and recently organized a two-day field trip to the Santee Coastal Reserve.
Outstanding Ambassador
As a CAFLS Ambassador since August 2023, Lanie has consistently gone above and beyond in her volunteer efforts and active participation in events. Her role as an ambassador reflects her dedication to representing the college with integrity and enthusiasm, creating welcoming experiences for prospective students and visitors.
CAFLS Ambassadors
Outstanding Student Organization
The Clemson Forestry Club has participated in extensive community service and shown dedication to the University and the community. After Hurricane Helene, the club led a clean-up at the Connie Maxwell Children's Home in Greenwood, South Carolina as well as the home of long time undergraduate advisor Mrs. Amy Sander.
Cultivate First Place
Mackenzie's startup "Easy Peasy" provides novel and open-source accessibility tools to make everyday activities easier.
See all Cultivate winners
Environmental and Natural Resources
Samuel represents the College with distinction and is a shining example of what it means to be a leader at Clemson University. Samuel is a member of the CAFLS Student Advisory Board and CAFLS Ambassadors. Additionally, as Chief of Staff for Clemson Undergraduate Student Government, he leads the Executive Branch, advises the Student Body President and Vice President, and organizes advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels.
Animal & Veterinary Sciences
Sarah is an exemplar of academic achievement and leadership within the College. She has been a working student and volunteer at several animal hopsitals, and a therapeutic riding program in her home town of Gastonia, NC. She's also the president of the Pre-Veterinary Club and serves as an Honors College peer mentor, a member of the Rotaract Club providing community service hours to non-profit organizations, an active member of the dairy science club and dairy show team.
