Author Details

Adrienne J. Crawford has a BS in Biology from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Ecology from the University of Arizona, where she researched the effects of urbanization on seed dispersal and plant characteristics of fishhook barrel cactus. Currently, Adrienne is pursuing interests in coral reef restoration and has contributed to reef restoration in the Exuma Cays, Bahamas. Efforts include transplanting fragmented elkhorn and staghorn coral as well as diadema relocation. In Arizona, Adrienne is working towards increasing awareness and improving water conservation efforts along the Verde River. As an instructor at GCU, she enjoys being able to share her excitement for biology with her students as well as bringing her research background and real-life experiences into the classroom. In her free time, she enjoys scuba diving, skiing and kayaking. ​

Faculty Spotlight Questions:
I grew up in a small town in Michigan and have always had a passion and curiosity for the natural world around me. Spending time on the water and hiking through numerous ecosystems around the world has driven me to focus my efforts on conservation and developing community awareness about the problems we face and, more importantly, the solutions. Being a part of the GCU community has given me the opportunity to not only share those experience with my students, but also continue the research efforts to help highlight important issues such as water conservation.

I enjoy being able to collaborate with peers from all the science disciplines and sharing those experiences with students. In the world of biology and ecology, it is important to understand the chemistry and physics behind what is happening in the environment. It is truly a collaborative effort that involves students in projects, allows us to share resources and helps us gain new insight into current research and technologies that we can all benefit from.

Make the most of the time you have here. Network with faculty, staff and fellow students to give you a broad background and understanding about the field you are most passionate about.  Getting involved with community efforts, mission trips and Research and Design Program projects will not only add to the scope of the work you are doing, but also give you valuable tools and experience that you will take with you throughout your career once you graduate.