We are excited to welcome Alan Pomeroy to the SE CASC team as our communications and engagement manager. Learn a bit more about Alan in this Q&A.

What led you to the SE CASC?

I have been interested in the natural world and natural resource security from a young age, and this followed me into my professional life, where I have sought out opportunities to communicate the scientific and recreational benefits of our ecosystems, fish and wildlife to a large audience. The opportunity to work for SE CASC appealed to me because the Center’s work encompasses such a wide range of scientific topics and involves a variety of stakeholders across the region. The Center’s emphasis on real-world actionable science and co-produced research is exciting and I look forward to being at the forefront of this important work and communicating its benefits to the region and beyond. 

Tell us about your studies and background

My undergraduate studies focused on molecular biology, entomology, forensic anthropology, and geology. For the next ten years I worked in a variety of roles in zoos, museums, and nonprofits, where I worked with animals and provided educational opportunities through programs and talks. I went on to attain an MS in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from University of Florida and studied public perceptions and management preferences of American alligators in North Carolina. Around this time I began working for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission as a Human-Wildlife Interactions Biologist and gained valuable insights into NC’s various ecosystems, wildlife, and management practices. Prior to joining SE CASC, I worked with the NC Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission, where my focus was on developing programs and grant awards that connected the state’s youth with outdoor opportunities that included activities tied in with natural resource education, recreation, and management. 

What are your plans and hopes for this position?

My hope is to continue the amazing work that has been done with communication channels at the Center and share our work across a range of platforms and media. I look forward to building our communications capacity, developing relationships with our stakeholders, and learning more about the important research being done, not just in the Southeast, but across the entire country.

Tell us about you, the person!

I have more hobbies than time, and I love reptiles! I’ve been fortunate to live in different states and countries, and I never get tired of exploring a new place and discovering its wildlife and landscapes. My family and I love to spend time outdoors, hiking and wildlife watching. I’m a keen mountain biker, angler, kayaker, snorkeler, and snowboarder (when time allows). I’m pleased to see that my son has developed an affinity for wildlife— something I have actively encouraged with frequent trips to the NC Museum of Natural Sciences and North Carolina Zoo. Before he was born, my wife and I spent every weekend out in nature somewhere in the Southeast. She’s from Alabama, and we’ve lost track of how many State Parks we’ve visited across the region. We’re big fans of the outdoor spaces in Alabama and Mississippi, where there are great opportunities for viewing American alligators! As our son grows, we’re excited to dive back into the activities we used to enjoy.