Deacs Do: Leyla Herrera (’27)

For Leyla Herrera (’27), summer research means taking science beyond the classroom and into the field. At the Emily Allen Wildflower Preserve, Leyla studied how ferns function in different environments, measuring photosynthesis, water use and other physiological traits to better understand where these plants can thrive and the role they play in shaping forest ecosystems. Working alongside Dr. Chris Krieg, Assistant Professor of Biology, she gained hands-on experience in fieldwork and data analysis while preparing for her next step: graduate school.