It is with pleasure that I nominate Dr. Kenton Sena for the University of Kentucky’s Sustainability Champion Award. I do so without reservation. I have known Dr. Sena since 2012 when he started working for me as a Research Assistantship for a MS degree. I also served as Kenton’s major Professor for his Doctoral degree in Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences. After graduating, Kenton took a position as Lecturer in the Lewis Honors College at UK. Given that we are on the same campus and that he has a 9-month appointment, we continue to collaborate on research projects, development of research proposals and community service projects. In the years I have known Kenton, I have been very impressed with all facets of his person and educational aptitude and I see someone who will go far in any research, teaching and service opportunities that come his way.
Dr. Sena works with a high degree of scientific curiosity. He has been recognized for his efforts within several professional scientific organizations with awards and scholarships including the Early Career Award and the Reclamation Researcher of the Year Award from the American Society of Reclamation Sciences. From his research, Kenton has published dozens of peer‐reviewed publications and book chapters stemming primarily from his research in environmental sustainability and restoration. The variety of topics that Kenton has worked on is unparalleled for a junior faculty member. Although all are grounded in soil and plant sciences, Kenton has developed an extensive background in plant pathology, genomics, environmental chemistry, hydrology, ecology, environmental policy and reclamation science.
Kenton really understands the dynamics of college teaching. He is excited, energetic and engaging in his teaching approach. He does a wonderful job of keeping the students interested and involved. In a short period, Kenton has developed five courses, including a class on Restoration Ecology. Not only is Kenton an excellent lecturer, but his background allows for him to offer a wide variety of courses and educational experiences that are unique to his College. Kenton has spent considerable time in Appalachia and has developed several field courses. He has extensive knowledge of UKs Robinson Forest and mined landscapes in eastern Kentucky. He has been utilizing these for both research and experiential education resources (outdoor classrooms). These experiences have spilled over to the main campus in Lexington. He has led several campus beautification projects including a native plant establishment on University Drive and has participated in the monitoring and maintenance of the Alumni Drive rain gardens/wetlands.
As a Lexington community member, Kenton has represented UK well with several planting and education projects involving local middle schools, monitoring of the Reforest the Bluegrass efforts, local and regional tree planting projects and stewardship. It is evident that Dr. Sena is having a profound impact on the lives of the many students and colleagues he encounters....a true Sustainability Champion.
- Dr. Christopher Barton, Professor of Forest Hydrology and Watershed Management