Celebrating Pollinators: The Annual Buzz Bash Fundraiser at the University of Georgia
On Saturday, the Odum School of Ecology at the University of Georgia hosted its much-anticipated annual fundraiser, Buzz Bash. This special event serves as a networking opportunity for both current students and alumni, all while emphasizing the significance of pollinator ecology through initiatives like the Campus Pollinator Project and Project Monarch Health. Attendees enjoyed local cuisine, live musical performances, beverages, and a delightful selection of honey, creating an engaging atmosphere for all involved.
The funds raised during this event directly support vital pollinator research conducted at UGA’s Bee Lab along with activities associated with Project Monarch Health. This project focuses on assessing how parasites affect monarch butterflies throughout North America—a pressing concern in ecological studies today.
Insights from Leaders in Pollinator Research
Lewis J. Bartlett, who oversees UGA’s Bee Lab and partners with UGArden to produce over 1,000 pounds of honey annually shared insights about his journey since joining UGA in 2014. Originating from northern England, Bartlett expressed his passion for supporting student research across various academic levels—Ph.D., master’s degrees, or undergraduate studies alike.
“My favorite part about overseeing this facility is championing student research,” Bartlett remarked. ”I strive to create an environment where they can explore their interests confidently while collaborating with farmers and beekeepers. As science communication becomes increasingly crucial each year, I aim to be a catalyst that helps them springboard into their future careers.”
Collaborating closely with Bartlett is Sonia Altizer—a professor at Odum School of Ecology and co-director of Project Monarch Health—who shares her enthusiasm regarding butterfly migration.
“I derive great joy from introducing individuals to the magnificent beauty and unique migration patterns of these butterflies,” Altizer noted.
– Is there a way to volunteer for the Odum School of Ecology’s annual fundraiser?
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Join the Buzz: Odum School of Ecology’s Annual Fundraiser Brings Thrills and Support!
What is the Odum School of Ecology’s Annual Fundraiser?
The Odum School of Ecology, renowned for its commitment to ecological research and education, hosts an annual fundraiser that unites faculty, students, alumni, and community members. This exciting event not only promotes awareness about ecological issues but also generates critical funds to support ongoing research, education programs, and outreach initiatives.
Key Highlights of the Fundraiser
- Date: Annually every spring
- Location: Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia
- Activities: Silent auctions, guest speakers, workshops, and interactive exhibits
- Audience: Open to the public, family-friendly atmosphere
Benefits of Attending the Fundraiser
Participation in the Odum School of Ecology’s annual fundraiser provides numerous benefits:
- Support Ecological Research: Your contributions directly support groundbreaking research in ecology and environmental science.
- Expand Your Knowledge: Gain insights from renowned speakers and experts in the field, discussing current ecological challenges and solutions.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about ecology, including scientists, students, and community leaders.
- Fun and Interactive
Community Engagement Through Food and Brew
The event featured catering by The Expat situated in Athens Five Points alongside special contributions from Creature Comforts Brewery. The brewery initiates a yearly program called Brew For One wherein they select a beneficiary each year; they create a unique beer that channels profits toward meeting significant needs. This year’s exclusive brew named Whale Fall honors Birkley Heynen—a dedicated ecology student who tragically passed away earlier this year—while proceeds will aid the Birkley Heynen Environmental Foundation established by his family in his memory.
Exhibits showcasing stunning displays of monarch butterflies alongside bees from UGA’s Bee Lab attracted considerable attention from attendees as well-trained students volunteered their time to discuss these remarkable species with guests while also facilitating connections among alumni.
First-year ecology major Callie Viktora expressed her excitement about such collaborations: “It feels like our college frequently hosts events like this,” she observed gleefully. “They bring together everyone—alumni interacting seamlessly alongside students across different levels.”
Understanding Pollinators’ Vital Role
Mark D. Hunter—the Dean of the Odum School of Ecology—shared key insights into why emphasizing pollinators is so crucial today: “Roughly one-third of everything we consume relies on some form of pollination,” he explained thoughtfully.“Thus it is clear that not only are our agricultural systems intertwined with rural health but also our personal well-being as well as ecosystem vitality because everything connects back to pollination.”
Through innovative efforts like Buzz Bash—and substantial engagement among faculty members—the University’s commitment resonates strongly within both academic circles and surrounding communities when it comes down protecting our precious pollinators for generations ahead.