I grew up in Asheville, NC, and though always an “outdoor kid”, had no particular appreciation for bugs as a child (aside from the lightning bug in a jar of course). The fascination with them came much later, after my undergraduate degree and as a Master’s of Science student at Appalachian State University, Boone, NC. My research introduced me to an insect pest damaging forests, an ecosystem I’ve always loved. After learning more about the life cycle of this insect, my interest in the cool ways bugs live began. After my M.S. degree was completed, I spent several years as a Biological Technician with the US Forest Service, where the group I worked with examined insect pests in Southeastern U.S forests. More neat bugs to observe.

After teaching in temporary positions for several years, I fully realized my career goal was being on a faculty at a college or university. I went to the University of South Carolina for my PhD in Biology, where my dissertation researched the potential effects of climate change on tree-insect interactions. Conducting manipulative experiments required good knowledge of several insects' life histories and provided me with a hands-on bug experience. My degree provided me the opportunity to pursue my dream job, which very fortunately came to fruition in 1997 when I joined the faculty in the Department of Biology at Appalachian State University.  Taking over the Entomology course from a retired professor, I could now fashion a learning experience for students that communicated my passion for insects. It became apparent to me early on that students wanted to know more than what bugs are made of and how to identify them, but more importantly to investigate and learn about their lives. In addition to Entomology I developed a course that explored the many interactions insects have with plants, which became the focus of my academic research. I worked on many insect projects with undergraduate and graduate students in my academic career, and through these collaborations gained an even greater appreciation for the fascinating lives of bugs.

After 25 years in this wonderful academic community I retired from meetings and teaching classes, but not from wanting to learn more and write about bugs. Researching their natural histories occupies my time now. Writing short articles for a local newspaper, a monthly “Fascinating Bug of the Month”, periodic blog posts and an upcoming book, I look forward to writing about “my love of bugs” and hope others will gain a fascination with them too! I greatly look forward to communicating my love for bugs to others and hearing their stories.