Thomas Hennessey, a current Master of Science in Biology student, was awarded first place in the 2020 Three Minute Thesis Competition, hosted by the WCU's Graduate School.

His presentation “Restoring the Roan: How Red Spruce Responds to Forest Canopy Openings at Roan Mountain, NC” provides the audience with an overview of the threatened ecotype, explores the study’s approach to boost seedling and understory growth, and highlights the goal of identifying a successful red spruce management strategy.

Hennessey was awarded first prize for his effective communication, strong quality of research, and clear engagement with the audience. As the first prize winner, Hennessey received a $500 tuition award for the Spring 2021 semester and $500 cash. 

He will also move on to represent Western Carolina University at the Conference of Southern Graduate Schools 3MT Competition in February 2021.

About the Master of Science in Biology