By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University doctoral student Isabel Dalton has received a prestigious fellowship from the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program. The award recognizes graduate students who show strong potential for major achievements in scientific research and education.
Dalton is studying biological sciences with a specialization in natural resource management. Her research focuses on Castilleja sessiliflora, commonly called the downy painted cup or downy paintbrush flower. She studies how the flower interacts with pollinators that help the plant reproduce and survive across the Great Plains region.
The fellowship is considered one of the nation’s top honors for graduate students. More than 14,000 students from many scientific fields applied this year. Only 2,500 fellowships were awarded, including fewer than 500 students in life sciences. The program provides three years of financial support, including tuition assistance and a salary stipend.
“I can't overstate how delighted I am that Isa was awarded one of these fellowships,” said Katie Wenzell, assistant professor in the Department of Natural Resource Management and Dalton’s adviser. “This award recognizes her outstanding accomplishments and her potential to become a leader in science and education. I could not be prouder of her success.”
Dalton’s work explores how pollinators and native prairie plants interact across different environments. The research may help scientists better understand ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the long-term health of prairie species.
Wenzell explained that the fellowship allows graduate students to take greater leadership in shaping their research projects while strengthening future career opportunities.
Dalton said her passion for pollinator ecology comes from her strong connection to nature and the land. Originally from New Mexico, she is proud to represent her heritage and family while building a successful scientific career.
“I can't boil it down to how much this means to me in any of the words that I possess,” Dalton said. “I'm representing me. I'm representing my family. I’m representing my state. I’m representing the generations that came before me. I feel incredible being able to say that I didn't have to change myself to be nationally accomplished.”
Dalton will soon travel across the upper Midwest to collect plant and pollinator samples for future research analysis.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Education