Carri LeRoy

Carri LeRoy is a Professor and Director of the Master of Environmental Studies (MES) program at The Evergreen State College. She specializes in freshwater ecology, focusing on aquatic-terrestrial linkages, leaf litter decomposition, and plant genetics' influence on stream ecosystems. Her research integrates fieldwork and lab studies, emphasizing undergraduate mentorship. LeRoy has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and collaborates globally on projects like the Mount St. Helens succession study and the Elwha River dam removal analysis. She received the 2021 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Mentoring and the 2023 River Warrior Award.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biology (Freshwater Ecology), Northern Arizona University, 2005
• M.L.S. in Environmental Education, Northern Arizona University, 2001
• B.S./B.A. Environmental Science & International Studies, Oregon State University, 1998

Research Interests: Riparian-stream interactions, decomposition dynamics, plant genetics, conservation biology, and science outreach. Her work explores how terrestrial factors like plant sex and genetics influence aquatic processes, with applications to ecosystem restoration and climate change.

Teaching & Mentoring: LeRoy emphasizes hands-on, field-based learning. She advises undergraduate researchers through programs like SURF and teaches courses in statistics, ecology, and environmental analysis. Over 40 undergraduates have co-authored her papers since 2018.

Awards & Outreach: Recognized for mentoring and science communication. Co-founded the Sustainability in Prisons Project, involving inmates in conservation efforts. Collaborates with the Mount St. Helens Institute on K-12 outreach and GeoGirls programs. Hosts annual GREEN Student Congresses for K-12 environmental education.

Labs & Collaborations: Leads the Freshwater Ecology Lab. Collaborates with institutions like the US Forest Service, Missouri State University, and UW Tacoma. Active in global networks like CELL-DEX and LandComp for decomposition studies.