Ray Bowdish
WISER Center Coordinator 2016 – Present
Ray is and alumnus (87’) who has worked in the Biology Department since 1994. He earned Master’s degree in Entomology from the University of Maine, Orono (1997). His main interests include pest ecology, Integrated Pest Management, food and pollinator gardens, Agrivoltaics and Urban Farming.
“I’m proud of the work students do here, their focus and efforts make the WISER Center and interesting and welcoming place for the whole community.”
Ellie Barbolt '27
Environmental Science Major
Ellie is currently in her third year at SUNY Potsdam. She takes part in student research, and also works in the WISER Center during the school year. Ellie started volunteering at WISER when she was a freshmen, and continues to this day because of her love for plants and because of the wonderful people she works with.
"There are some problems that cannot be solved without looking at the little details."
Garrett O'Hara ' 27
Environmental Science and Environmental Studies Majors
Sustainability and Wilderness Education Minors
Garrett is taking on his junior year at SUNY Potsdam and his fourth semester working in the WISER Center. He enjoys the hands on experience in a greenhouse as it relates to his field of study. Learning how to work with other people, educate new members, and conduct student run research.
"The WISER Center is more than just a greenhouse, it is a greenhome with a strong, welcoming, community working together to improve our environment."
Sadie S. Brown
Sociology Major
Marketing Minor
Sadie is taking on her senior year at SUNY Potsdam and beginning her first year working at the WISER Center! She enjoys the opportunity to further her knowledge of horticulture and enjoy a hands-on experience working alongside a team! This opportunity allows her the chance to gather a new talent that could help her in her future past times!
"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow." ~ Audrey Hepburn
Maddie Healy '28
Environmental Science Major
Maddie is starting her sophomore year at SUNY Potsdam and is going into her first semester at the Wiser Center. She is excited to learn more about urban farming and gain more knowledge within her major.
“There are no gardening mistakes, only experiments” ~ Janet Kilburn Phillips
Kendyll Mack '27
Studio Art Major
Environmental Science Minor
Kendyll is a junior here at SUNY Potsdam and is excited to get more educated on the native plants in the area while obtaining experience with gardening, to apply as soon as possible.
“It's important to surround yourself with good people, interesting people, young people, young ideas. Go places, learn new stuff. Look at the world with wonder - don't be tired about it.” ~ Angela Bassett
Kashi Rahman '27
Biology Major
Kashi is a Biology major at SUNY Potsdam with a strong interest in health, sustainability, and community engagement. She began working at the WISER Center simply looking for a job, but over time grew to genuinely enjoy the work and the environment. Although the work can be demanding, Kashi values the hands-on experience, plant care, and the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable campus. She especially appreciates the supportive and welcoming community at the WISER Center and the people she works alongside.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” — Maya Angelou