Lisa Roerk - Class of 2015
January 1st, 2021
PBA Class of 2015 Alumna to Publish Study on Native Waterbirds
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Alumna Lisa Roerk balances both her new teaching position at PBA and publishing her first scientific journal study. Lisa graduated from Oregon State University majoring in zoology and minoring in chemistry and visual art. Her work experiences include working as a state entomologist studying the biology of insects and tracking endangered owls in southern Oregon. Her most recent work focuses on native Hawaiian waterbirds.
“I am currently in the process of publishing my first scientific journal. It highlights the importance of native waterbirds and how they are conservation reliant. In order for these birds to have a future in Hawaii, active management such as predator control is necessary to study,” explained Lisa. “I am writing about the Herpestes auropunctatus, which is the small Indian mongoose, and how they are detrimental predators to native waterbirds, preying upon eggs, chicks, and adults. By comparing the cost efficiency of various traps, my results can provide insight on both trap and bait preference.”
Lisa hopes that her study can eventually be used to help manage areas that are impacted by mongoose in Hawaii beyond waterbird habitats. She credits her high school experience at PBA for instilling her with a desire to make a difference in Hawaii.
“I thank PBA for shaping me into the individual that I am. My career path was influenced by PBA’s science curriculum and class called Radical Movements. PBA offered a variety of electives, which allowed me to pursue and delve into my own interests,” said Lisa.
This year, Lisa has joined the PBA staff as a math teacher, advisor, and teacher of an elective called Wilderness Survival. “I urge my students to make the most of their high school education. Because I got along so well with my teachers when I was a student, it made speaking to professors in college a breeze. A lot of opportunities to conduct research opened up because of this. I’m excited to develop that type of relationship with my students as well,” said Lisa.
Pacific Buddhist Academy is thrilled to have Lisa as a staff member and looks forward to the positive influence she will have on many students to come!
