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Ms. Jolman is a 3rd year Ecological Sciences PhD Candidate at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Her research focuses on understanding the ecological consequences of natural plant hybridization (crossing of two species) by studying wild hybrid blueberries across Virginia. Ms. Jolman research relies on the classification of plants to identify hybrids and their parent species; she uses genetics, plant traits, and pollinator interactions to explore the impact of hybrid plants. With the presence of hybrid plants increasing due to climate change, this work is increasingly relevant for conservation, management, and restoration purposes. In 2018, Ms. Jolman received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Calvin University in Michigan; her undergraduate research worked to inventory the flora of West Michigan, relying heavily on plant identification in the field. During this time, Ms. Jolman also worked at a local Michigan Nature Center to develop educational programs for the county park. After graduation, She spent three years in Vermont as a Park Interpreter and Park Manager for Vermont State Parks, planning and facilitating ecological park programs for a diverse array of park patrons while managing park operations. Along with pursuing her PhD in Virginia, Ms. Jolman currently works with numerous organizations (Norfolk Botanical Gardens, schools, retirement groups, Master Naturalists, local non-profits, Botanical Society of America’s Planting Science, etc.) to provide plant-focused educational programs to the public. She believes strongly in the equitable communication of science and strives to continually bridge the gap between academic research and the public through education.
