Eva Popp installing an experimental planting of Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia Creeper vine) in a restored sand dune at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Monmouth, NJ, Sept 28, 2019-when she was an ARESTY research assistant for the Handel Lab in Ecology and Evolution. Photo: Amy Gage.
Eva Popp spent much of her undergraduate career exploring the field of botany and plant ecology, so it is fitting that the Botanical Society of America chose her to receive the Young Botanist Award.
The purpose of the award is to offer individual recognition to outstanding graduating seniors in the plant sciences and to encourage their participation in the Botanical Society of America.
The top 25 nominees, whose selection was based primarily on their accomplishments described in recommendation letters and supporting materials, received a “Certificate of Special Achievement” from the Society, complimentary student membership for the rest of the calendar year and have their names published in the Plant Science Bulletin.
“I’m honored to receive the Young Botanist Award,” said Popp. “My experiences working in research, in the Chrysler Herbarium, and out in the field have been immensely fulfilling and now having received this award I realize those experiences are also significant accomplishments.”
Given that there is so much to be discovered in our own backyards and city streets, Popp said she believes that botany and plant ecology are fields of science that are accessible for all to participate in. “Receiving the Young Botanist Award is confirmation that I have chosen a field in which I can make a real contribution.” In addition to conducting research, Popp hopes to share her passion through teaching to promote environmental awareness and appreciation amongst the general public.
“I wish to thank all my professors and instructors for their support and guidance, especially Dr. Steven Handel, Dr. Lena Struwe, Dr. Myla Aronson, Dr. Jason Grabosky, Dr. Suzanne Sukhdeo, Amy Gage, and Megan King.”
