Elizabeth Taylor, a graduating senior in wildlife ecology and management from Mobile, has been selected to lead the Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment class of 2023 at this weekend’s summer commencement exercises, August 5-6.
Taylor initially had the intention of majoring in pre-veterinary medicine at Auburn. However, her profound interest in the natural world and her desire to discover optimal ways to manage it for the well-being of wildlife led her to choose wildlife ecology and management within the College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment. This decision was driven by her passion for the outdoors and various wildlife, as her hobbies include traveling, hiking, hunting, fishing, horseback riding and nature photography.
Taylor was involved in the Auburn University chapter of The Wildlife Society and participated in numerous volunteer opportunities, working alongside graduate students. These activities included using radiotelemetry to locate squirrels, darting deer at the college’s deer research laboratory in Camp Hill and working as a technician conducting camera surveys of raccoons
“I especially enjoyed the wildlife ecology and management program at Auburn due to the ample opportunities for hands-on experience and meaningful interactions, such as collaborating with graduate students and participating in summer practicum,” Taylor said. “I feel as though the program has prepared me with the foundation to begin working in the wildlife field.
Taylor, who earned her associate degree from Coastal Alabama Community College and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of South Alabama, believes she has gained more than another Bachelor of Science during her time on the Plains.
“My time at Auburn has been a wonderful experience, and I would not change a thing.”
After graduation, Taylor intends to work in the wildlife field for a few years to gain valuable experience before considering a master’s degree in wildlife sciences. Her goal is to work within the wildlife section of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, fulfilling her aspiration to contribute to wildlife conservation and management efforts in the region.
“Elizabeth Taylor is an outstanding selection for our College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment’s class in this summer’s commencement ceremonies,” stated Emmett F. Thompson Dean Janaki Alavalapati. “Elizabeth’s pursuit of knowledge beyond the classroom has given her invaluable experiences, which will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for her academic and professional growth in post-graduate life. We look forward to witnessing her continued triumphs as she embarks on her journey towards becoming a wildlife ecology professional.”
The university will kick off its graduation weekend at Neville Arena at 2 p.m. CT on Saturday, August 5, with a commencement address from Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment alumnus Marc Walley, leader of a forestland investment advising firm based in Atlanta, Georgia
Additional information, including updates regarding inclement weather, is available on the commencement website, and information will be posted on the Facebook and Instagram accounts.
All ceremonies will be live-streamed, with recordings available on the commencement website following the weekend festivities, and graduates and their families are encouraged to check the website regularly for updated information.
(Written by Allison Killingsworth)
