IGC alumna Dr. Gabrielle Ripa was highlighted in a recent Fralin Feature celebrating the Virginia Tech Class of 2026. Ripa’s research weaves together invasive species science and wildlife conservation, building on her background in plant ecology and habitat management. After graduation, she will begin a postdoctoral fellowship at North Carolina State University focused on invasive plants in areas affected by Hurricane Helene near Asheville, North Carolina. In the feature, Ripa reflects on the mentors who shaped her growth as a researcher, her favorite Hokie memories from long fieldwork trips, and her excitement to continue addressing conservation challenges in the Southern Appalachians through interdisciplinary research.

Read the Full Fralin Feature