Dr. Alec W. Armstrong received a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from The Ohio State University and a PhD in Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Science from the University of Maryland. His broad interest in ecology began when he joined volunteer relief efforts in New Orleans, Louisiana, following Hurricane Katrina. There, he worked to address soil and water toxicity, helped with wetland restoration efforts, and learned most intimately the necessity of integrating human dimensions into environmental studies. His doctoral work focused on ecosystem processes in wetland landscapes that are surrounded by extensive agricultural development. In particular, he focused on organic carbon dynamics connecting uplands, wetlands, and streams.
During this time and beyond, Alec also worked closely with SESYNC on a variety of socio-environmental topics and contributed substantially to the development of open-access learning resources. His faculty position with the Maryland Institute College of Art involves teaching and engaging with students on ecosystem science and related fields, with emphasis on links between scientific practice and the arts, social phenomena, and questions of justice.
