Faculty
Dr. Chris Tonra
Chair, ORWRP
Associate Professor, SENR, Avian Wildlife Ecology
I am an avian ecologist that primarily studies the annual cycles and habitat ecology of migratory birds. Over the past 20 years, I have conducted research in a multitude of systems such as mangroves, riparian forest, and the Lake Erie marshes. Since I arrived at OSU in 2014, I have been teaching, conducting research, and participating in outreach at the Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetlands Research Park. This unique facility has both a history and enormous potential in advancing our understanding of emergent wetlands, rivers, bottomland forest, and associate habitats, particularly in an urban context. Our research informs stewardship of these ecosystems and our educational and outreach missions will engage multiple generations of the public and future scientists and land managers. Together with our Leadership Committee I am thrilled at the opportunity to lead this one of kind facility in furthering our mission. Please come visit us to learn more!
Staff
Kristen Reaver
Coordinator, ORWRP
I am the coordinator for the Olentangy River Wetland Research Park. Previously, I worked as a research biologist for the USGS Wetland and Aquatic Research Center in Gainesville, FL studying non-native freshwater fishes. My research involved non-native fish surveying for range expansion and new species records, everglades simulation studies, and fish predation and behavior analysis. Additionally, I worked with the USGS Non-indigenous Aquatic Species database team to assist with tracking aquatic non-native species across the U.S. It is exciting to have the chance to continue working in unique aquatic systems such as the ORWRP. I received my BS in environmental science from the University of Toledo and my master’s from Miami University. I am excited to be back in my home state and to work with students and researchers to further the mission of the ORWRP!
Shelby Myers
Outreach Coordinator
I am the outreach coordinator for the Olentangy River Wetlands Research Park. As a lifelong resident of Ohio, I grew up spending most of my time outdoors and finding ways to connect with nature and all types of wildlife. After some exploration of different career paths, I realized I wanted to help others feel that same connection through outreach and education. I completed both my BS in biology and master of environment and natural resources at Ohio State and I have loved every second I’ve been able to spend here at the park. I am passionate about wildlife conservation, environmental education, and creating an environment that is accessible and welcoming for everyone. I remember my excitement when I discovered the ORWRP during my undergraduate career at Ohio State, and I am excited to continue helping other connect with nature and further the mission of the ORWRP!
Keara Stanislawczyk
Instructional Aid Associate Specialist
I am the instructional aid for SENR courses at the Olentangy River Wetlands Research Park as well as at F.T. Stone Laboratory. I have a MSc in environmental science with a focus on aquatic invasive species and I have worked primarily in the Great Lakes region. In the past I have worked as an aquatic technician for several different projects including detection of novel aquatic invasive species within ballast water of Canadian freighters in the Great Lakes, and studying the toxicity and impact of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie’s western basin. I am excited to work in riverine and wetland ecosystems and to work with the next generation of scientists at Olentangy River Wetlands Research Park.
Not pictured: Glenn Mills, Facility Manager
Student Interns
Connor Welsh
Outreach Intern
I am a rising fourth year student studying Natural Resource Management at Ohio State. Growing up in the Scouts, working at REI, and my rugged exploration of the Appalachian Trail as a Wilderness Trip Leader instilled a desire to pursue an environmental field, and my combined experience has brought me to the ORWRP as an outreach intern! This opportunity allows me to align my outdoor passions by leading site tours of our experimental wetlands, representing the ORWRP through tabling events and educational programs, and running our social media, ensuring our exciting research initiatives here can reach as many people as possible. Each day presents a dozen new things to learn, and I’m excited to share that experience with all who visit!
AJ Sweigart
Research and Site Management Intern
I am a rising fifth year pursuing a degree in Forestry and Wildlife, with a minor in Human and Animal Interactions, hoping to continue to explore my passion for the environment while connecting people with the natural world around them. Growing up in South Florida, I have always had great interest in exploring and creating opportunities to interact with nature. In the future I hope to be able to travel and work around the country to protect and conserve our natural resources and be a beacon for environmental education and interpretation. I am excited to be able to share my experience and knowledge, while also learning about new ways to study and manage plants and animals as a Research and Site Management Intern at the ORWRP!
Ethan Staffiera
Research and Site Management Intern
I am a rising third year student majoring in environmental science, with a minor in cultural anthropology. I love being immersed in nature and adventuring in new places. My experience with ecology data collection has provided me with the opportunity to work as a research intern here at the ORWRP, where I am helping to document the behaviors of plants and animals within the wetland. My goal is to grow as a scientist and use my understanding of nature to help people and places in need. I am excited for this chance to learn more about the world around me, from the biggest trees to the littlest insects!
Aaron Giganti
Administrative Assistant
I am a Master’s student studying the impacts of elevated turbidity on fish communication, specifically looking at how bluegill use visual signals to attract and choose mates. I received my BS in Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife from Ohio State in 2023, and my experiences caring for fish in zebrafish and chichlid labs, combined with my undergraduate stream ecology research in the USDA’s Soil Drainage Research Unit, has given me a strong interest in how fish interact with their environment and each other. I am passionate about research, environmental education, and outdoor recreation, and I feel that combining these tools can help us foster relationships with nature, local communities, and ourselves. I am excited to serve as an administrative assistant at ORWRP this summer to share my love of native Ohio wildlife, and especially our local fish species!