Our Students
Our students
Learning beyond the classroom
Education in SES extends beyond the conventional classroom. Our students make the most of opportunities to learn through applied research, volunteer activities, and student-driven sustainability projects. In the process, they enrich their education and positively impact the University and the broader community.
Active researchers
Many SES undergraduate and graduate students are active researchers. They work with faculty mentors on projects that advance environmental science and prepare them to become independent investigators.
Environmental toxicology students contribute to local ecological restoration
In the fall of 2022, students in the Chemistry of the Environment course went with their instructor to study soil and water quality in Chicago’s West Ridge Nature Park. Four students—Marinda Vacanti, Kyleigh Miklos, Connor Olds, and John Gorman—continued the work beyond the assigned course activities. The students analyzed water samples from the park’s 4.5-acre pond and tested the surrounding soil for nutrient content and heavy metals. Their preliminary results revealed phosphate, iron, ammonia, and chromium levels significantly outside the EPA’s recommended ranges. The students presented their research at the Midwest Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry conference and Loyola’s Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium. Their efforts could help inform future ecological restoration efforts.
Mikayla Ballard studies invasive crayfish in Chicago-area waterways
Mikayla Ballard, a senior in environmental science and biology, has been interested in aquatic ecology research since high school. She knew she wanted to pursue environmental science at Loyola. In her sophomore year, she connected with mentor Reuben Keller, PhD, with whom she had taken an environmental statistics course. Mikayla joined his lab, which focuses on aquatic invertebrates. She contributes to Keller’s investigations and works on individual projects. Her most recent project examines the impacts of invasive crayfish in the North Shore Channel, an artificial channel that connects the Chicago River to Lake Michigan.
Kristina Tsakos investigates wetland conservation
Kristina Tsakos, a 2023 graduate in environmental science, discovered her passion for research during her time at SES. She joined Team Typha, a research group focusing on invasive cattails and wetland restoration. One of her projects investigated the use of biochar for remediating road salt pollution. Kristina’s dedication and achievements were recognized through awards such as a two-year Carbon Fellowship for STEM research and a Wetland Scientists Student Award. After graduation, she plans to continue her research, pursue a master’s degree, and work in stream restoration and fisheries.
Outstanding graduates
Meet some of the many 2023 graduates who received school and university honors for their academic accomplishments and contributions to sustainability and social justice.
Cosette Ellis
BA in environmental studies
Cosette Ellis from Seattle, Washington, received the prestigious President's Medallion, an award that honors one Loyola student from each School or College who demonstrates exemplary leadership, scholarship, and service. As an undergraduate, Cosette was co-president of the Student Environmental Alliance and chief sustainability officer for the Student Government of Loyola
Connor Bishop
BA in environmental policy, BA in political science
Connor Bishop received the James E. Hansen Award for his outstanding work as an intern in the Office of Sustainability. During his two years in this role, Connor supported initiatives such as Zero Waste Games, paper towel composting, and the Cycle and Recycle Center, making vital contributions to sustainability efforts on campus.
Ericka Gonzalez Guzman
BS in environmental science: food systems and sustainable agriculture
Ericka Gonzalez Guzman received the Wangari Muta Maathai Award for her exceptional service and dedication to sustainability and social justice. She was one of five student leaders who founded the Eco-Warriors eco-anxiety support group, helping to plan how this group could serve SES students. While on campus, Ericka also worked as a team leader in the Urban Agriculture Program, serving as a compassionate and inspiring mentor for other students.
Carolyn Bidó
MS in environmental science and sustainability
Carolyn Bidó received the Hazel M. Johnson Award for her leadership, academic excellence, and extracurricular achievements as a graduate student. She participated in the Abrams Sustainable Business Challenge and was part of the team that won third place for their concept for reusable steel actuators for inhalers. As a master's degree student, Carolyn demonstrated a passion for environmental advocacy and encouraged and inspired fellow students.
Rowan Obach
BA in environmental policy
Rowan Obach received the E.O. Wilson Award for her excellent work conducting rigorous and practically relevant research on regional food systems. She completed a research project in collaboration with the Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC), a group working to advance food justice in the Chicago Region. Rowan's research provided actionable feedback that helped CFPAC adapt to changing conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
John Gorman
BS in environmental science, BA in chemistry
John Gorman received the Rachel Carson Award for his outstanding academic achievements. He completed bachelor's degrees in both environmental science and chemistry and tied with a classmate for achieving the highest grade point average in the 2023 SES graduating class. At Loyola, John worked in the Biodiesel Lab, was a peer advisor, and played in a jazz ensemble. He plans to pursue a PhD program in environmental chemistry.
Active researchers
Many SES undergraduate and graduate students are active researchers. They work with faculty mentors on projects that advance environmental science and prepare them to become independent investigators.
In the fall of 2022, students in the Chemistry of the Environment course went with their instructor to study soil and water quality in Chicago’s West Ridge Nature Park. Four students—Marinda Vacanti, Kyleigh Miklos, Connor Olds, and John Gorman—continued the work beyond the assigned course activities. The students analyzed water samples from the park’s 4.5-acre pond and tested the surrounding soil for nutrient content and heavy metals. Their preliminary results revealed phosphate, iron, ammonia, and chromium levels significantly outside the EPA’s recommended ranges. The students presented their research at the Midwest Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry conference and Loyola’s Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium. Their efforts could help inform future ecological restoration efforts.
Mikayla Ballard, a senior in environmental science and biology, has been interested in aquatic ecology research since high school. She knew she wanted to pursue environmental science at Loyola. In her sophomore year, she connected with mentor Reuben Keller, PhD, with whom she had taken an environmental statistics course. Mikayla joined his lab, which focuses on aquatic invertebrates. She contributes to Keller’s investigations and works on individual projects. Her most recent project examines the impacts of invasive crayfish in the North Shore Channel, an artificial channel that connects the Chicago River to Lake Michigan.
Kristina Tsakos, a 2023 graduate in environmental science, discovered her passion for research during her time at SES. She joined Team Typha, a research group focusing on invasive cattails and wetland restoration. One of her projects investigated the use of biochar for remediating road salt pollution. Kristina’s dedication and achievements were recognized through awards such as a two-year Carbon Fellowship for STEM research and a Wetland Scientists Student Award. After graduation, she plans to continue her research, pursue a master’s degree, and work in stream restoration and fisheries.