Celebrating Pollinator Appreciation: UGA’s Annual Buzz Bash Fundraiser
The Odum School of Ecology at the University of Georgia recently hosted its annual Buzz Bash Fundraiser, a vibrant networking opportunity for students and alumni alike. Held on Saturday, this event shines a spotlight on pollinator ecology, specifically through initiatives such as the Campus Pollinator Project and Project Monarch Health. Attendees enjoyed local cuisine, live musical performances, refreshing beverages, and honey while supporting vital research efforts.
Supporting Groundbreaking Research
Funds raised during Buzz Bash will directly benefit projects at UGA’s Bee Lab and contribute to Project Monarch Health—a program dedicated to researching the effects of parasites on monarch butterflies throughout North America. Lewis J. Bartlett, who oversees UGA’s Bee Lab and collaborates with UGArden to produce over 1,000 pounds of honey annually, has been integral in spearheading these efforts since his arrival in 2014 from Northern England.
“My role now as director involves championing student research,” Bartlett shared. “Whether they are working towards their PhDs or are just beginning their undergraduate studies, I strive to create an environment where curiosity can flourish.” He elaborated on the significance of equipping students with confidence when engaging with farmers and beekeepers while emphasizing science communication—an increasingly vital aspect within ecological research.
Enhancing Community Awareness
Sonia Altizer, a professor affiliated with the Odum School of Ecology and co-director of Project Monarch Health alongside Bartlett stated her enthusiasm for educating others about butterflies’ remarkable migration patterns. “It is awe-inspiring to share such beauty while fostering appreciation for these creatures,” Altizer expressed.
– Where and when is the Odum School of Ecology’s annual fundraiser taking place?
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Join the Buzz! Odum School of Ecology’s Annual Fundraiser Promises Fun and Impact!
What to Expect from the Annual Fundraiser
The annual fundraiser for the Odum School of Ecology is right around the corner, and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever! Join us for a day packed with activities, networking, and the chance to contribute to critical ecological initiatives. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops led by esteemed faculty and guest speakers.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and performances from local artists.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet like-minded individuals and professionals in the field of ecology.
- Delicious Food and Drinks: Savor delightful treats from local food vendors.
Why Support the Odum School of Ecology?
The Odum School of Ecology stands as a beacon of research and education dedicated to understanding and conserving our natural environment. Your contributions during this annual fundraiser will directly support:
Key Areas of Impact
- Research Grants: Facilitate groundbreaking research on emerging ecological challenges.
- Scholarships: Provide financial aid to deserving students pursuing degrees in ecology.
- Community Outreach: Fund programs that educate the public about sustainability and conservation.
Event Details
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 15, 2023 | 2:00
This year’s event featured delicious catering from The Expat in Athens’ Five Points area along with local brewery Creature Comforts—a supporter committed to community engagement through their Brew For One initiative which crafts a special beer each year aimed at supporting noteworthy causes. The highlighted brew this year was named Whale Fall in memory of Birkley Heynen—a promising ecology student whose untimely passing occurred earlier this year. The proceeds generated will nourish the Birkley Heynen Environmental Foundation established by his family. Engaging Future EcologistsDisplays showcasing both monarch butterflies and bees from UGA’s Bee Lab captivated guests throughout the event; students volunteered extensively by enriching conversations about pollinators with attendees including alumni representing various graduating classes. “Our college actively fosters connections like this,” remarked first-year ecology major Callie Viktora. “We bring everyone together—alumni meet current students across all levels.” Mark D. Hunter—the Dean of the Odum School of Ecology—underlined pollinators’ critical role within our ecosystems: “Approximately one-third of all food items we consume rely on pollination,” Hunter explained succinctly. “Consequently, maintaining healthy rural environments benefits not only ourselves but also upholds ecosystem integrity.” ConclusionBug Bash stood as an important celebration not just for raising funds but also for enhancing awareness surrounding biodiversity’s essential components—pollinators—and fostering camaraderie among current students and alumni aiming to facilitate positive ecological change effectively. |