Four Talladega students took advantage of a unique research trip to Belize to study cultural and environmental sites. Some of the top students in the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics–Love Jean, Leonard Richardson, Athaliah Townsend, and Dewinel Vazquez–were selected to travel with Dr. Andy Coleman, department chair and associate professor of biology. The students were able to participate in an immersive experience, exploring the rich cultural and ecological tapestry of the Central American country.
Belize, which is located on the northeastern coast, is known for having the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. Its reef system is known to be a significant habitat for threatened species according to UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
“These students represented Talladega very well,” said Coleman. “They participated in a variety of research projects and visited various cultural and environmental sites.”
“My trip to Belize was an incredible experience, and I’m grateful to Talladega College,” said Jean, a senior biology major and chemistry minor. “I had the opportunity to document the presence of jaguars and native mammals on private lands, assist with macroinvertebrate sampling to assess the water quality of the Sibun River, and participate in turtle trapping.” Townsend is also a senior biology major with a chemistry minor.
For Jean, the hands-on experiences deepened her understanding of conservation and biodiversity. She also noted that the research trip left her with a greater appreciation for environmental research.
Why Belize? Coleman said that a former professor of his from Appalachian State University had been taking student groups to the country for a number of years through his company, Inspire EdVentures. The two reconnected during the COVID-19 lockdown, because Coleman needed a research project for a Talladega student.
“That collaboration jump started a conversation about me bringing Talladega College students down to Belize and conducting research,” Coleman said. The first Talladega research trip happened in 2023, making this year the third consecutive research trip.
Coleman said the research that was conducted will soon result in published manuscripts in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Also, the students are expected to conduct independent research projects and communicate their findings from their experiences in Belize.
“I'm very grateful for the support that Dean Alison Brown and the college’s administration have provided to these efforts,” said Coleman. Dr. Alison Brown is the dean of natural sciences and mathematics.
Richardson, a senior chemistry major and biology minor, said that the research trip was a valuable experience that expanded his perspective. “(The trip to Belize) strengthened my collaboration skills and deepened my understanding of the importance of research” he said.
“The only word I can use to describe this experience is wonderful,” said Vazquez, a sophomore biology major. “Being part of this group, working together, learning and growing personally and professionally everyday is an experience that I will never forget.”
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