Gracie Carlile
Gracie Carlile, a graduating senior majoring in Environmental Conservation and Management (ENVC), from New Market, Alabama, has been chosen to lead the Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) class of 2026 at Auburn’s summer commencement ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 8.
Driven by the need to leave the Earth better than she found it, Carlile chose her major to further her goal of serving and working with the natural world. With her degree, she aims to spend her life doing meaningful, impactful work and feels the ENVC major has equipped her with the skills, experience and confidence to do just that.
“My Auburn experience has shaped my personal journey through all of the wonderful friends I’ve made and the life experiences I’ve gained,” said Carlile. “While I’ve learned so much in the classroom, I would argue that the real growth happened outside of it.”
While pursuing her degree, Carlile served as the social media manager for Auburn’s Climbing Club. She also served as an officer for the Outdoor Adventure Club and participated in the pioneer group for the Tropical Conservation and Sustainable Development minor in Costa Rica, which she considers to be one of her most impactful experiences as a CFWE student.
Carlile describes her time at Auburn as transformative, pushing her outside her comfort zone and challenging her beliefs.
“Professionally, I am thankful for the professors and mentors that have motivated and believed in me,” said Carlile. “I am constantly humbled and inspired by the people around me in the Auburn community and I wouldn’t be half of who I am today without them.”
After graduation, Carlile plans to focus on watershed management in her hometown and eventually pursue natural resource conservation at an international scale.
Auburn will begin its commencement ceremony at Neville Arena at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8. For more details, including updates on any potential weather-related changes, please visit the commencement website. Information will also be shared on the university’s social media platforms.
