| Faculty Advisor |
Stacy Asher
|
|---|---|
| Contact Email | stacyasher@unl.edu |
| Advisor College: |
Fine and Performing Arts
|
| Potential UCARE Research Position? |
Yes! Student(s) must apply to UCARE by February deadline.
|
| Paid or Volunteer |
Paid by UCARE Stipend
|
| Hours Per Week |
10-20
|
| Acceptable Undergraduate Majors |
Graphic Design, Illustration
|
Opportunity Description:
The production of this pilot printed publication called "Wild Times" is intended to connect readers to the conservation resources for youth on the Mongabay Kids website. The "Wild Times: Un-Endangering Nebraska," the first edition to be printed, will serve as a field guide of informative news and motivate youth to get outside and connect with nature. This printed piece will have constructive information and exciting news about biodiversity for youth. It will also demonstrate calls for action that are manageable for youth to make a difference through easy-to-follow tool kits in interactive puzzles, games, and comics.
Launching in Nebraska and expanding to other locations worldwide, the Mongabay Kids productions of "Wild Times" will contribute to environmental education by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing social and ecological justice issues, and empowering youth to become active participants in addressing pressing environmental challenges. The graphics and storytelling visual communications in future printed pieces will be co-created by youth artists, citizen scientists, and journalists through an after-school club or organization such as 4H. Featuring youth artists in the printed field guide will allow young artists and journalists to see their work in published material and will contribute to their vocational learning."
Faculty Advisor Mentoring Philosophy:
As a mentor in undergraduate research, particularly within the UCARE program, I emphasize fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. I view each research project as a collaborative journey where students contribute their unique perspectives while developing skills in inquiry, analysis, and problem-solving. My approach prioritizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage deeply with interdisciplinary topics, such as the intersection of design and environmental education.
I aim to empower students by creating a supportive environment where they can take intellectual risks, build confidence, and see the tangible impact of their work. Through hands-on involvement in projects like the Wild Times field guide or conservation outreach, students gain professional skills, from ideation to production, while learning to address real-world challenges.
By encouraging autonomy and providing constructive feedback, I help students grow as independent thinkers and collaborators prepared to contribute meaningfully in their future endeavors.