Outreach
Entomology Society at USF Environmental Outreach
During my undergraduate experience, I co-founded the Entomology Society at USF (ESSF) with Taylor Rand, Dayana Gutierrez-Sotelo, and Shane Brown. ESSF is a non-profit organization led by University of South Florida's faculty and students. The entomology organization was founded in December 2022, making it the first official insect-focused group of all USF campuses (Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota). Entomology society encourage South Florida insect enthusiasts to network for remote or in-person events. The society also collaborates with local environmental organizations and institutions to promote conservation initiatives and citizen science projects. Members are encouraged to share their insect discoveries through platforms like iNaturalist, creating a database that contributes to broader research efforts. By connecting individuals with shared passions, the Entomology Society at USF has become a cornerstone for entomology outreach and education in the region. Through its activities, ESSF not only celebrates the fascinating world of entomology but also fosters a sense of community among insect enthusiasts.
Nature-based Learning Through iNaturalist
Entomology Society at USF offers to incorporate a diverse community-based project on iNaturalist for members to share their bug observations for research grade photos. Since insects are part of our daily lives, members are encouraged to take photos of their findings whenever they come across a bug. Once observed, entomology society members are allowed to upload onto the iNaturalist group.
Citizen Scientists
The iNaturalist project bines together two objectives once ESSF members join. First, uplift entomology members to learn about Florida's native, endemic, and invasive insect species. Second, inspire collaboration with neighboring universities to quantify the number of bug observations with Geographic Information System (GIS) software. A total of 6+ ESSF members have joined the project to track insect populations throughout one's daily life.
Previous Personal Involvement (2022-23)
The list of virtual events, in-person events, hikes, and insect pinning seminars while hosting for the entomology society. I had a wonderful experience getting to know the enthusiastic bug-side from the University of South Florida. These events taught me the valuable lesson of community outreach.
Academic Seminars, Guest Speakers, and Nature Hikes Galore
• Virtual (Remote) Society Engagement (12/1/22) - (8/24/23)
• Welcome & Bombardier Beetles (8/28/23)
• Donut Social & Water Bugs (9/11/23)
• Lettuce Lake Bug Hike (9/24/23)
• Pizza Social & Flower Beetles (9/25/23)
• Donut Social & Oak Treehoppers (10/9/23)
• USF Botanical Gardens Bug Hike (10/10/23)
• Halloween Social & Stag Beetles (10/23/23)
• Final Meeting & Polyphemus Moths (11/6/23)
Events
• Academic Tours, Bug Seminars, Nature Hikes, Guest Speakers, Pinning Lessons
Goals
1. Provide a community for entomology enthusiast.
2. Share interesting insect taxonomy and live specimen.
3. Learn about Florida's ecosystem of native insect habitats.
4. Spread awareness of insect species conservation and pest control management.
Platforms
Photo: Daniella Casanova tabling for ESSF at the USF Botanical Garden's Farmers Market.
