Madeline Grace  

Dean's Medal: Biological Sciences

Madeline Grace will graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Ecology, Evolution, & Behavior.

With her sights set on a future in research, Madeline has gained experience working in numerous COSAM labs during her time at Auburn. She conducted undergraduate research on cleaner shrimp in the lab of the late Department of Biological Sciences Associate Professor Nanette Chadwick and most recently worked in Department of Biological Sciences Assistant Research Professor Marie Strader’s lab, studying development and settlement behaviors of Cassiopea xamachana during the polyp stage of the life cycle. She also worked as an undergraduate researcher in Associate Professor Alan Wilson’s lab in the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences.

Honors and awards presented to Madeline include the Fund for Excellence Undergraduate Research Award, William R. and Fay Ireland Endowed Scholarship for demonstrating excellence within COSAM, the Jack and Kathryn Feminella Endowed Scholarship, and the COSAM Golf Classic Annual Scholarship.

During her time at Auburn University, Madeline served as an undergraduate teaching assistant in the Auburn University Department of Biological Sciences, was involved in the student leadership program Emerge, and participated in Auburn’s LeaderShape Institute. She also volunteered at the Junior Mad Scientist event hosted by the Graduate Women in Science organization and was a camp counselor for Auburn Youth Programs. She enjoyed inspiring and working with children throughout these events.

Madeline has had an exceptional experience as a COSAM student and is excited to pursue a career dedicated to research so that she may inspire future generations of scientists.