Simona Principato, University of Kentucky
John Osmun Scholarship Recipient

Learn how this fourth-year Ph.D. candidate utilized the 3,000 John Osmun scholarship to support her bed bug research under Dr. DeVries in the Urban Entomology lab at the University of Kentucky.

“This award meant so much to me, as it not only affirmed my commitment to my studies but also reinforced that the work I have been doing is continuing to make a positive impact on the pest management industry, for which I am so passionate.”

Research Update

Research Update

Hannah Blevins, University of Kentucky
Founders Scholarship Recipient

Learn how a second-year Masters student utilized the $2,000 Founders Scholarship to support her research project, which focuses on neonicotinoid resistance in German cockroach (Blattella germanica) populations under Dr. DeVries in the Urban Entomology lab at the University of Kentucky.

“The opportunities this scholarship afforded me have allowed me to grow my scientific communication skills, which are crucial for the dissemination and integration of scientific findings into applicable areas of our lives.”

Research Update

Emily Ta, University of California
Dr. Austin Frishman Scholarship Recipient

Learn about second-year Ph.D. student studying urban entomology under Dr. Chow-Yang Lee’s at the University of California, Riverside. Her research on the behavioral response of German Cockroaches (Blattella germanica (L.) towards insecticides will surely have a positive impact on our industry.

“My 2024 academic year felt like a rollercoaster ride of fulfilling and challenging moments for my research, but I experienced many events of professional growth and new adventures along the ride.”

Research Update

Olivia Katz, University of Kentucky
Alain VanRyckeghem Scholarship Recipient

Learn about this student pursuing a Master’s in Entomology at the University of Kentucky. Her research on German cockroach allergens and how we can mitigate them in the home environment will be meaningful to the industry as we act as stewards of human health.

“I have been fortunate enough to do various outreach events around the state of Kentucky. I hope to be able to use those opportunities to inspire the next generation of urban entomologists.”

Research Update

Samantha Dilday, Washington State
Norm Ehmann Scholarship Recipient

Learn about this Ph.D. student studying at Washington State University under Dr. Laurel Hansen. Her research focuses on understanding the biology and resilience of the odorous house ant (Tapinoma sessile), a common and notoriously difficult-to-manage urban pest. Her work has centered on

documenting their starvation resistance, a fascinating yet challenging aspect of their biology. She has also created educational materials to help PMPs accurately identify odorous house ants in the field.

“I remain deeply grateful for Pi Chi Omega’s support. This scholarship has allowed me to pursue meaningful research while contributing valuable resources to the pest management community. Together, we are advancing the science and practice of urban pest management.”

Research Update

Morgan Wilson, Virginia Tech
R. Randall Rollins Scholarship Recipient

Learn about this Ph.D. candidate studying under Dr. Dini Miller at Virginia Tech. Morgan’s specialty is in bed bug (Cimex lectularius (L.)) management, with a specific focus on eggs. Among other findings, she discovered concentrated dish provides almost complete mortality to bed bug eggs regardless of their age.  This cleaning product would potentially provide a non-toxic yet effective method of eliminating eggs after a bed bug treatment, benefiting both residents and pest management professionals.

“I am deeply appreciative of Pi Chi Omega for offering me encouragement and support. I take great pride in receiving the Randall Rollins scholarship. It feels especially meaningful because my first job in the pest management industry was with Critter Control, a Rollins company, bringing my journey full circle as I advance in my career.”