Life Sciences Graduate Student Selected as Outstanding Graduate
Dr. Nita Tallent-Halsell, a graduating doctoral student in the laboratory of Dr. Lawrence Walker, was selected by UNLV President David Ashley as Outstanding Graduate, and was honored at the Spring 2008 Commencement ceremony. During her time at UNLV, Dr. Tallent-Halsell has demonstrated superior scholarship and a strong commitment to the Las Vegas community and the university.
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Nita Tallent-Halsell |
Dr. Tallent-Halsell’s dissertation examined the impact of the invasive shrub Buddleja davidii (Butterfly Bush) on plant communities on New Zealand floodplains. Biological invasions are recognized as one of the most important causes of ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss worldwide, and ornamental plant species are often at the top of invasive species lists. Buddleja davidii, a popular ornamental shrub native to China, can rapidly colonize and dominate natural areas when its wind-dispersed seeds are blown beyond garden walls. Dr. Tallent-Halsell’s study detailed the impact that B. davidii has on several New Zealand floodplain communities, especially its influence on the survival of native plants in natural settings and under controlled conditions. She concluded that B. davidii has the capacity to alter the floodplain (riparian) plant community by modifying biogeochemical cycles and affecting plant community composition. Her research has provided land managers valuable information about managing and controlling B. davidii invasions in New Zealand and elsewhere.
Post-graduation, Dr. Tallent-Halsell will continue to work as a Research Environmental Scientist for the United States Environmental Protection Agency.