THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Greetings from the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences!
As chair, I’m excited to share just a glimpse of the energy and excellence that make our community so special This year has been full of discovery, service, and creativity from creek clean-ups and Tri-Beta’s “Murder Under the Microscope” event to S-STEM scholar trips, internships, and research presentations across the country. Our students continue to show what it means to combine rigorous science with curiosity and care for the world around them. I’m especially proud of the many ways they represent Samford beyond our campus at SURF, the Association of Southeastern Biologists, research experiences from Oregon to South Carolina, and in local clinics, parks, and classrooms. Their work reflects not only scientific skill but also a heart for service.
Our faculty and staff are the backbone of this success. This year, we celebrate Mrs. Cindy Kennington’s SoCon AllConference Staff Award and her daily impact on every student who walks through our doors. We also honor Dr. Larry Davenport’s distinguished career and recent recognition as a Distinguished Scholar at the UWA Cahaba Biodiversity Center, along with his ongoing research on Alabama’s unique flora In the classroom, lab, and field, colleagues like Mr David Frings whose photography and research capture the beauty of our natural world and Dr Katylynn Corder recipient of a Howard College course release grant and Academic Advisor of the Year continue to pair high-impact teaching with meaningful scholarship We also celebrate Dr Drew Hataway’s promotion to full tenured professor, a well-deserved recognition of his dedication and contributions to our department And looking ahead, Dr Brad Bennett has been awarded a sabbatical for Spring 2026, during which he will focus on education and training in the analysis and mapping of microbial whole genome and transcriptome sequencing data work that will generate exciting new data and create additional opportunities for student research
This has been a year of growth and new opportunities We’re thrilled to welcome Dr Andrew Coleman, whose expertise in turtle ecology and conservation biology enriches our wildlife offerings, and Dr Jade Stanley-Jefferson, molecular physiologist whose research on hormone regulation and metabolic health strengthens our cellular and molecular biology programs Add to that new student opportunities like the Samford Fishing Club, Neuroscience Club outreach, Brain Day events, and conservatory displays and it’s clear that students can find a home here whether their passions lie in molecules, ecosystems, or somewhere in between.
To prospective students and families: imagine yourself collecting data in a mountain stream, presenting your senior research at a regional conference, guiding children through a Brain Day activity, or helping restore local habitats on Saturday morning. At Samford, you’ll be known by name, mentored closely, and challenged to connect your faith, values, and scientific training to real-world problems. To our alumni and friends: we invite you to reconnect visit the department, share your professional journey, partner on internships, or simply drop us a note. Your stories inspi our current students and help us build the next generation of scientists, health professionals, educators, and conservation leaders
Thank you for being part of the Biological and Environmental Sciences family I hope you enjoy this newsletter and see in these pages a reflection of our shared mission and momentum
Please enjoy this issue of our newsletter It is filled with the accomplishments of our students and faculty
Warm Regards,
Dr Anthony Overton, Professor & Chair
Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
Fin-Tastic Things are happening with Samford’s Marine Sciences!
Dr. Overton and Dr. Lovejoy are dressed for a research trip aboard the R/VBulldog!
Do you have an upcoming event that you would like featured?
Contact Dr. Overton (aoverton@samford.edu) or Dr Corder (kcorder@samford.edu)
“R/V Bulldog Sets Sail: Expanding Student Research Horizons” Alabama’s incredible aquatic biodiversity makes it a living laboratory, and now our students can explore it like never before The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences has acquired the R/V Bulldog, a research vessel that will provide hands-on access to rivers, lakes, and remote aquatic habitats This new resource will allow students to collect real-world data, develop practical field skills, and collaborate on projects that prepare them for careers in aquatic science. With the R/V Bulldog, learning ht into
Left: Juniors Katie Burnett (Philosophy) and Nico Foster (Marine Science) competed in the 2025 Auburn Open Series at Lake Martin. Under the guidance of Dr. Anthony Overton, chair of the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department, Katie and Nico represent the new Samford Fishing Club. If you’re interested in joining, contact Dr. Overton (aoverton@samford.edu) and follow them on Instagram @samford fishingclub
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Students in Dr. Overton’s Marine Biology course capped off the fall semester with a field trip to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee, recently named the nation’s top aquarium in Newsweek’s 2024 Readers’ Choice poll. Home to more than 10,000 animals and two signature exhibit buildings River Journey (freshwater) and Ocean Journey (saltwater) the Aquarium provided an ideal setting for students to explore river ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation strategies, and marine adaptations firsthand Working in small groups over several weeks, students designed technology-enhanced scavenger hunts that challenged participants to find and interpret at least 20 clues across both buildings, integrating accurate marine and aquatic biology content with engaging, interactive tasks The project culminated in digital scavenger hunts, reflective group reports, and peer evaluations, giving students experience in science communication, collaborative problem-solving, and the design of educational activities for a premier public aquarium setting.
Junior marine science major Madison Dorsey is contributing to groundbreaking research on blacknose sharks at Birmingham’s McWane Science Center Working with paleontologist Jun Ebersole, she’s helping create a standardized tooth structure for this Gulf Coast species analyzing patterns like maturity-based variation and seasonal changes. Supported by Samford’s STEM Scholars program and faculty mentors, Dorsey calls the experience “a dream come true” and looks forward to publishing her findings as she pursues a future in shark biology and conservation.
Three biology students, Anna Caroline F., Lachlan C. and Hannah S., joined Dr. Coleman, assistant professor of biological and environmental sciences, and partners from Cahaba Riverkeeper to document a new site for alligator snapping turtles in the urban stretch of the Cahaba River. Hands-on research experiences like this
This summer, Samford students gained hands-on experience at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab releasing endangered sea turtles, collecting marine specimens aboard the R/V Discovery, and snorkeling for seagrass samples From shark and ray biology to sea turtle conservation, these immersive opportunities gave students practical skills and unforgettable memories As one participant shared, “It was truly transformative ”
This summer, junior Marine Science major Ashley Bryant completed a sea turtle conservation internship at Edisto Beach State Park in South Carolina.
“During this experience, I had the privilege of working alongside sea turtle biologist Leah Schwartzentruber and park interpreter Samantha Foreman As a selected intern, I gained
extensive hands-on experience with loggerhead sea turtles through daily dawn and night patrols My responsibilities included assisting with the relocation and marking of nests, documenting hatching tracks, and monitoring new emergences. In collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Audubon, I also served as an Audubon Shorebird Steward. During this internship, I engaged with the public to promote awareness about sea turtle and wildlife conservation, emphasizing its importance and sharing practical ways individuals can contribute to protecting these species.”
WHAT'S HAPPENING? Step inside
our department life
Dr. Kristin Bakkegard and Samford students from across campus joined faculty at the Friends of Shades Creek Fall Cleanup to make a difference right in our own backyard! Together, they picked up trash and removed invasive taro along the creek that runs past Samford and flows into the Cahaba River one of the most biodiverse rivers in the U.S.
The annual tree decorating party is always a fun way to kick off the Christmas season
Senior Sydney Smith places her customized ornament onto the tree.
Dissections with Dr. Christenberry are a great way to get hands on experience while learning anatomy!
Samford’s new Introduction to Forensic Science course, taught by retired forensic scientist Dan Matteo, is giving students hands-on experience in a field where science meets justice From blood spatter analysis to crime scene documentation, the class blends biology, chemistry, law, and investigation in an interactive format. With no prerequisites required, this popular course is open to all majors and offers a unique opportunity to explore careers in forensic science.
Did Someone say Snakes? Students in Dr. Kristin Bakkegard’s Vertebrate Zoology class capture a rat snake for a class project
Dr. Christenberry brought a unique guest speaker, Hazel the Llama, to his class for a fun learning opportunity!
Anatomy with Dr. Corder can be tough. Occasionally, the class must take dance breaks after lab to shake off the stress.
Dr. Bennett sparks a love of biology with his enthusiasm in the classroom!
Jay Knowles, Joseph Kelly, and Micah Gaddy pose at the spooky “Murder Under the Microscope” Halloween Tri-Beta Event
Senior Gracie Berthiaume represented the department at a Samford Preview Day as an Ambassador
New and old members came together for the annual Tri-Beta induction ceremony!
Contact Dr. Riley Lovejoy (rtunnell@samford.edu) for information about joining Tri-Beta!
Mrs. Kennington Announced the Winner of the SoCon All-Conference Staff Award
Members of the BIEN Department have considered Mrs. Cindy Kennington to be vital to the success of faculty and students since she joined the department in 2010.
We are thrilled that she has recently been recognized with two well-deserved awards showcasing her commitment to excellence. Last year, she was named the Howard College Outstanding Staff Member of the year. This November, she was recognized as the winner of the SoCon All-Conference Staff Award.
Make sure to attend the Samford Men’s Basketball game on February 7 against Mercer and support Mrs. Kennington as she is recognized for her latest award on the court! th
A Legacy of Learning: Dr. Ellen
McLaughlin’s Endowed Gift for Biology’s Future
After more than 40 years of dedicated teaching in Samford’s Biology Department, Dr. Ellen McLaughlin is continuing her legacy of impact through an endowed fund supporting the greatest needs of Biology faculty and students. Finalized this spring, the gift will support future generations of students reflecting Dr. McLaughlin’s lifelong passion for science and student success
Over the course of a forty year career at Samford University, Dr. Larry Davenport has become a living legend in the field and in the lives of his students and peers alike Widely considered the foremost expert on the Cahaba Lily (Hymenocallis coronaria), Dr. Davenport has more than 150 publications and a long running column in Alabama Heritage magazine Most recently, he has been honored with the title of Distinguished Scholar at the UWA Cahaba Biodiversity Center.
Together, Frings and Davenport recently published a paper documenting their discovery of a large population of carnivorous roundleaf sundew in the Sipsey Wilderness in Winston County, AL More typically found in colder climates, this is the southernmost known population of the species.
This summer, Samford’s resident wildlife photographer, Mr. David Frings, was featured in an exhibit titled “Feathered Focused: Wild Birds Through the Lens of David M. Frings” at the Gadsden Museum of Art and History during a First Friday event. Mr. Frings’ talent highlights the beauty at the intersection of science and art
Frings also spent some time keeping cast and crew safe while wrangling snakes on the set of The Rivals of Amziah King while the film was in production in 2023 Frings identified snakesincluding water moccasins - and ensured the cast and crew could work without worry. “Everyone was incredibly professional and kind,” Frings shared. “It was amazing to see the teamwork behind a film.” Though the days were long and hot, Frings says the experience was unforgettable and yes, Matthew McConaughey even took time for photos and a heartfelt thank-you to the crew
Green leaves of Drosera rotundifolia growing in shaded areas
NewFaculty Spotlight
This year, we are thrilled to welcome two new full-time faculty members to the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences!
Dr. Andrew Coleman brings a wealth of experience in ecology and conservation biology to Samford University. He earned his Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where his research focused on the biology and conservation of diamondback terrapins Dr Coleman also holds Master’s degrees in Biology from Appalachian State University and in Environmental Sciences and Policy from Johns Hopkins University.
His career spans roles as a senior research scientist at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies and Program Director for Alabama Audubon, where he led studies on sea turtles, terrapins, and coastal ecosystems Passionate about hands-on learning, Dr Coleman has mentored numerous undergraduate research projects and organized study abroad programs in Belize. His research interests include turtle ecology, conservation genetics, and wildlife management, and he actively collaborates on projects across the Southeast and Gulf of Mexico.
Dr. Jade Stanley-Jefferson joins Samford University as an expert in molecular physiology and endocrinology. She earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics from Vanderbilt University, where her research explored how amino acids regulate hormone secretion and cell growth in pancreatic islet cells—work with implications for diabetes and metabolic health. Dr Stanley-Jefferson graduated summa cum laude with a B S in Chemistry from Tuskegee University and has conducted research in areas ranging from biohybrid solar cells to nutrient metabolism.
She is a recipient of numerous honors, including the Harold Stirling Vanderbilt Fellowship and an NIH NRSA Predoctoral Fellowship. Dedicated to teaching and mentorship, Dr Stanley-Jefferson has taught courses in human biology and led programs for talented youth, aiming to inspire the next generation of scientists through innovative research and inclusive education.
Dr Coleman (the one with the hat) poses with an alligator snapping turtle he met on a field excursion.
ResearchSpotlight
This October S f d t d t h d d t th 2025 SURF (S C U d d t Research For presented h Bottom: An with Dr. Fin
Allowing students to get mentored hands-on research experience is a top priority for the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department!
Dr. C
Alabama: Surveys from Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, FL and Belize" at the 2025 annual AlaPARC (Alabama Chapter of Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation) meeting in October held at the Solon Dixon Center in October in Andalusia, AL.
Dr. Overton was the invited plenary speaker at the 2025 Southeastern Fishes Council (SFC) Annual Meeting in Tuscaloosa, Alabama This is the largest in the Council’s history with 251 scientists, resource managers, and students in attendance As plenary speaker, he addressed the entire audience in a single session to set the tone for the meeting, offering a high-level, unifying presentation before participants moved into more specialized sessions His talk, “From Peaks to the Gulf: Navigating Aquatic Transitions and Ecotones,” traced Alabama’s rivers from cool upland headwaters through the Fall Line to the Mobile–Tensaw Delta and Gulf, highlighting how shifts in geology, flow, and water chemistry generate distinct fish communities and how dams, climate change, and land use change are disrupting the ecological connections among these key aquatic habitats.
r graduation this spring, Samford mma McBane and Liz Farley to Myrtle Beach, SC, with Dr. . Drace, Dr. Bakkegard, and Dr. Corder for the Annual Meeting of the Association of Southeastern Biologists in March Both students gave fantastic oral presentations highlighting their senior capstone projects.
StudentSpotlight
Some Samford students had the opportunity to attend the S-STEM Scholars meeting in San Diego, CA this October. This meeting is designed to enhance scholars’ professional growth and connections.
"The S-STEM scholars meeting in San Diego was such an amazing experience! They provided us with so many professional development and networking opportunities. As a marine science major, being able to see the Pacific Ocean was the cherry on top! I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as an S-STEM scholar at Samford as it has brought me so many blessings. " - Madison Dorsey
"I had an incredible experience at the STEM Scholars meeting in San Diego! The networking events provided a valuable opportunity to connect with peers and professionals from across the country who share similar interests and goals. It was an exciting chance to gain professional insight and broaden my perspective in the field. Exploring the city was an added bonus, and I’m truly honored to have been part of such a meaningful experience." - Jana Lovell
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Samford track and field athlete Jed Sisco turned an extra year of eligibility into an opportunity to pursue the Master of Science in Environmental Health, Policy and Management (MSEM) The program’s flexibility and career versatility made it the perfect fit Highlights include his work on a creel survey with Dr. Overton, mapping anglers’ responses using GIS a project blending his love for marine science and data analysis. Sisco says the experience has broadened his vision for environmental careers and encourages students to keep an open mind when exploring new paths
StudentSpotlight
This summer, senior Environmental Science major Addie Hunter worked as a Land Conservation Intern with Jefferson County Greenways managing conservation plots at Red Mountain Park, Ruffner Mountain Park, and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve.
“My primary duty was removing invasive plant species, including Kudzu and Chinese Privet I also assisted with bird banding, fish and wildlife projects, ArcGIS mapping, and volunteer events. These daily experiences deepened my understanding of public land maintenance and protection.
The most rewarding aspect was contributing to local parks I’ve long enjoyed, especially Red Mountain I’m grateful to work in these familiar spaces and see the lasting results of my efforts on future visits
This internship reshaped my view of urban park management and sparked a new interest in land management as a career path something I hadn’t previously considered. I plan to apply these conservation skills in my post-graduation career
My coursework in Samford University’s Biological and Environmental Science program prepared me well for this role. Classes like Vertebrate Zoology (BIOL 416) and Plant Taxonomy (BIOL 422) equipped me with essential identification skills and knowledge of plants and animals to tackle internship tasks effectively ”
Mason Currier, freshman Environmental Sciences major, set a record this fall for the most bird species seen in a single year (over 300!)
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StudentSpotlight
This summer, senior Marine Sciences major Amanda Williams participated in an Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at Oregon State University with a personal goal of improving her research and presentation skills
“I was responsible for designing a research question pertaining to video footage of krill in New Zealand, combing through said video footage and making observations, and then performing statistical analysis for any potential patterns of distribution. My research was summarized in a paper and presentation with time for questions at the end of the program The greatest challenge I faced was learning to code in RStudio, but I found I learned it quickly and was able to create graphs for my presentation I was proud of! My experience as a Marine Science major at Samford prepared me for this summer incredibly well, especially my research with Dr. Lovejoy, as I found a love of plankton in her lab that encouraged me to apply for this plankton-related project at OSU. Through the research and classes I’ve taken with Samford, I also found where my strengths in the lab and field are, and was able to apply to REU opportunities I felt equipped for. By the end of the program, I felt well-equipped to continue researching and confident in the process of conveying that research to others through writing and presenting.”
Joseph Kelly, a biology major completing his internship as a Medical Assistant at Christ Health Center’s Chalkville and Woodlawn clinics, reports a transformative experience that is capping his Samford education Serving underserved Birmingham communities through compassionate, affordable care, he completed Basic Life Support certification, workplace training, and orientation before earning clinical privileges to take patient histories, record vitals, assist and conduct a variety of procedures and testing, and coordinate follow-up care
Working on teams of 20–30 supporting ten physicians per site, he has gained profound respect for medical assistants’ role in clinic efficiency and learned directly from a Samford alumnus, whose professionalism and patient rapport inspire Joseph’s own growth in confidence. Daily tasks feel like “living biology lessons,” with a standout moment recognizing an anaerobic transport tube from Drace’s microbiology lab while carrying a sample. He has strengthened technical and communication skills and created a personal tracking method to manage incomplete labs and ensure timely follow-ups. Regular preceptor feedback helps him think like a clinician and feel truly part of the team This internship has solidified his aspiration to become a primary-care physician, where precision, empathy, and service intersect, and he strongly recommends future placements for Samford students to experience how biology translates to real-world patient care
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NeuroscienceatSamford!
SAVE DTHEATE!
BrainAwarenessWeek atSamford
march23-28
Senior Rachel Payne and junior Harrison Taylor joined Dr. Corder at a Brain Day event at Creek View Elementary this fall Together, they taught a delightful group of 3 graders about brain science! rd
Amy Yancey is the daughter of Samford Alums Mary Emily and Kevin Yancey and a regular visitor at Samford’s Brain Day. She’s pictured here showing senior Jaxon Dildine that she was featured on the 2025 Brain Day flyer.
Samford Neuroscience has been active this year! Be on the look-out for more events in the spring!
The Neuroscience Club is open to ALL Samford students, regardless of major Each year the Neuroscience Club hosts a variety of events, including service opportunities, speakers, and professional development seminars.
Scantojointhe Samford Neuroscience Club!
Members of the Samford Neuroscience Club participated in a donor walk from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
The club hosted a Pilates class to promote the benefits of exercise on brain health!
ConservatoryUpdates!
Have you visited the Conservatory lately? Senior political science major and Conservatory intern, Michael Doyle, has been hard at work this semester creating new aquatic ecosystem displays and updating the interpretive signage. Be sure to check it out!
SamfordBiologyinCosta Rica!
Dr. Kristin Bakkegard will be the faculty-in-residence at Samford’s Costa Rican property, Finca de Samford. Earn biology credit in a beautiful and biodiverse location.
Applications are open now and are due FEBRUARY 13, 2026!
Scan the QR code at the bottom of the page for for more information on courses, funding, and the application process.
