Mentors: Emma Galofré García, Karen Bailey

Bio: Irma Alexander is a first-generation college student currently pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Biology at the Community College of Denver. She plans to continue her education at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she hopes to earn a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a focus in Ethnic Studies in order to pursue ethnobotany. She also has a strong interest in entomology and the vital roles insects play in sustaining ecosystems and environmental health.

Irma hopes to use her education to engage with communities through education, communication, and environmental awareness. Her interest in ethnobotany began through watching her parents and grandparents connect with the earth by tending to the land. Their stories and relationship with plants reminded her that everyone carries knowledge and experiences worth sharing, especially those rooted in culture, land, and the natural world.

Outside of academics, Irma enjoys gardening with Denver Urban Gardens, volunteering with The Park People planting trees throughout the community, collecting handmade pottery, and attending insect and reptile conventions.