Ellen just graduated from student the University of Massachusetts Amherst studying Biology and Anthropology. She joined our group through the GRIPS summer research program. During her time with us, Ellen investigated microclimate refugia for ant activity, using fake caterpillars to quantify predation risk and activity patterns across different microhabitats in campus. Her work offered valuable insights into how fine-scale environmental conditions might buffer ant communities from climate extremes. We were consistently impressed by Ellen’s thoughtful questions and dedicated field observations. Hope she the best for her next journal as a graduate student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and her future career goal as an educator in Biology!