The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources (SNR) is proud to announce Jacob “Jake” Harvey (MS) and Katie Campbell (PhD) as recipients of the 2024 SNR Meritorious Graduate Student Award. This prestigious award recognizes graduate students who exemplify academic excellence, impactful research, leadership, service, and personal integrity.
Jake Harvey (MS)
Jake Harvey, a master’s student in Natural Resource Sciences specializing in Applied Ecology, has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while conducting impactful research on mountain lion ecology in California’s North Bay region. His work has already led to two peer-reviewed publications, with more in progress, and he has presented at ten professional conferences. Harvey is also a recipient of the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship.
Dr. John Benson, Harvey’s advisor, described him as “the complete package as a field biologist, an excellent graduate student, and a great colleague.” He emphasized Harvey’s tireless work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and strong focus on conservation. Dr. Benson also highlighted Harvey’s unique ability to seamlessly shift from intensive fieldwork to advanced data analysis and writing, calling his productivity “inspiring to our entire lab.”
Dr. Kyle Dougherty, a postdoctoral researcher and former labmate, noted Harvey’s dedication to collaboration and mentorship. He described Harvey as someone who “actively fosters a collaborative environment in our lab by helping other students navigate challenges in their own research.”
In addition to his academic and research excellence, Harvey has contributed to the scientific community as a peer reviewer for ecological journals and as an engaged member of the California Mountain Lion Science Working Group, where he presents annual project updates.
Katie Campbell (PhD)
Katie Campbell, a PhD candidate in Natural Resource Sciences, has been recognized for her innovative research in wildlife reproductive physiology, particularly regarding African elephants in zoo-managed care. Her dissertation work is supported by a $267,351 National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which funds the first national semen repository for elephants in the U.S.—a resource with significant implications for species conservation.
Dr. John Carroll, professor and nominator, remarked that Campbell’s work “bridges the gap between basic research and practical conservation” and commended her for her outstanding ability to secure competitive funding, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and balance teaching and leadership responsibilities. He highlighted her growing national reputation as an expert in mammalian reproductive physiology.
Campbell’s leadership goes beyond research. She has served as Chair of the SNR Graduate Student Association, led departmental service initiatives, and developed national internship programs for undergraduates in conservation physiology. According to fellow graduate student and nominator Rebecca Wyatt, Campbell “gives the very best of herself to the benefit of all of us” and is “not just a great scientist—but also an incredible mentor and human being.”
Campbell has taught courses like Ecophysiology of Wildlife, mentored interns at the nonprofit For Elephants, Inc., and participated in various SNR hiring committees. Her research has been presented at national conferences, including the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Elephant Managers Association.
Celebrating Excellence in Graduate Education
The SNR Meritorious Graduate Student Award includes a $500 honorarium, a certificate, recognition on the SNR website, and an engraving on a permanent plaque displayed at the school. Jake Harvey and Katie Campbell exemplify the caliber of graduate students who advance the mission of SNR through their leadership, scholarship, and service.
Please join us in congratulating both of these exceptional students.