09/02/2025

Student Board Transition: Honoring Johnalyn, Welcoming Bandana

Pi Chi Omega Values Our Student Board Member

The Student Board position on the Pi Chi Omega Board offers entomology students a unique opportunity to represent the student voice, connect with industry professionals, and help shape the future of the organization.

Johnalyn Gordon, Ph.D., stepped into this role in October 2022. In her three years of service, she has been instrumental in creating graphic images and promotional pieces and has kept our social media pages humming by providing her unique perspective during Board discussions as new programs and pivotal decisions have been made. We look forward to working closely with Bandana as she steps into this crucial role.

Meet Bandana…
Bandana Shrestha is a first-year Ph.D. student in Urban Entomology at the University of Kentucky, where she serves as a research assistant in Dr. DeVries’ lab. Her research explores proactive approaches to German cockroach management, with a focus on how aged gel baits perform under different environmental conditions. As Pi Chi Omega’s new Student Board member, Bandana looks forward to strengthening connections between students and professionals, supporting the organization through social media and communication efforts, and contributing to the exchange of ideas that drive the fraternity’s mission forward.

Johnalyn’s next steps…
Johnalyn recently began her career as an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. Her research and extension programs focus on applied management strategies for urban and structural pests, including cockroaches, bed bugs, and termites. She also teaches through UF/IFAS Extension programs such as Pest Management University and the School of Structural Fumigation.

Reflecting on her service, Johnalyn shared:
“I have been honored to serve as the student representative for Pi Chi Omega. The opportunity to meet and work with so many of you in this role has been one of the highlights of my time as a student, and I am incredibly grateful for the support of Pi Chi Omega and its membership throughout the years. I look forward to continuing to be involved as I start this new chapter!”