School of Natural Resources professor educates communities on the benefits of healthy and diverse urban forests
Where are you from, and how did your career lead you to the UT Institute of Agriculture?
I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, to David and Juanita Sparks, the eighth of thirteen children. I attended Tennessee State University in Nashville, majoring in biology and destined for medical school. The summer of 2000, I had the opportunity attend the Ronald McNair Summer Research Experience at UT where I worked in Dr. Edward Schilling’s lab. Dr. Schilling saw more in my abilities at that time than I knew and offered me an opportunity to return to UT for graduate school where I would start my masters in botany (p.s. I still had two years to go before I completed by B.S. in Biology 2002).
I returned to UT in the fall of 2002 and started my masters in the Department of Botany where I worked under the tutelage of Dr. Karen Hughes, a mycologist. I completed both my masters in botany, with an emphasis on mycology, and PhD in natural resources, with an emphasis on environmental contamination. Right before I completed my PhD in the School of Natural Resources, formerly the Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries (FWF), I was approached by former Dean Caula Beyl to spearhead the development and implementation of the urban forestry concentration within FWF. So, in July 2010 I started as an assistant professor of urban forestry.
What is your role within the UT School of Natural Resources, and what do you do on a typical day?
Prior to June 1 of 2023, I held a 70% teaching and 30% Extension appointment, where I teach courses in forestry that address vegetation establishment, management, and removal across an urban-rural gradient, legal issues, vegetation utility management, and the effects of societal influences on green infrastructure. My Extension appointment allows me to work with Extension agents and specialists, as well as directly with Tennesseans, to help them with their urban forest needs. I develop Extension outreach opportunities that educate and highlight climatology, enhance human benefits of urban forests, and increase the economic value of green infrastructure for cities. I currently have a split appointment with the Hebert College of Agriculture and the Division of Student Success. I am the professor of urban forestry, where 20% of my time is spent teaching and 30% is Extension. The other 50% of my time is with the Division of Student Success where I am the faculty director of undergraduate research and fellowships.
What is your main research focus, and why is it important?
My urban forestry research program focuses on the environmental, economic, and social benefits of healthy and diverse urban forests. Explaining to stakeholders the “why” behind the need for green infrastructure that promotes the psychological welfare, social needs, and values of humans, in relation to urban trees, forests, and open spaces.
Why did you choose the field of forestry?
The field of forestry chose “ME.” I always tell students, never say no to a positive opportunity even if you have no idea what you are walking into. That was my journey, I initially thought I was going to medical school, until somebodies introduced “positive opportunities” to me and said just trust. I did and that’s why I’m here today.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of the work you do?
That’s easy, working with students!
What has been your proudest moment while working at UTIA?
Seeing my students walk across the stage, at the undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels.
What is one of your favorite experiences you have had while working in the School of Natural Resources?
I teach an introductory tree climbing course for the last five weeks of the spring semester. It never fails, where for the first week or two of climbing students are really frustrated and struggle to get their brain to cooperate with their body and move up the tree. Then one day that moment hits, and you can see when the “ahh ha” moment clicks, and they have developed the muscle memory and start to climb.
What is a project you are currently working on that you are excited about?
The University of Tennessee School of Natural Resources just acquired the National Champion Tree Program from American Forests. That is a huge accomplishment for the School, and I look forward to Jaq Payne leading the national program for years to come!
What do you like to do outside of work and/or what is a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues may not know?
I love my life, and I’m grateful for each day I have here to share my time and talents with students and colleagues. Thank you for the opportunity to share me!
