Researching a new fish species involves swabbing it for a DNA sample (above) as well as measuring its physical characteristics (below)
Jackson Hoover ’25
physical measurements and comparison to other species in the area by the end of the year. Wiseman is working with scientists in Vietnam to do a DNA analysis to determine if it is indeed a new species. Jackson and Wiseman hope they will be able to eventually announce they have discovered a new species. Even if it’s not a new type of fish, they are still advancing science by documenting a new habitat for an existing species. But that’s not Hoover’s only goal or work. While he finishes his studies and waits to hear responses on his medical school applications he’s training hard as a wrestler. This year, he hopes to help the UIndy wrestling team finish top 4 in the country, be an All-American, and win the Elite 90 again. “It’s a pretty tough set of goals to
achieve, but that’s the standard that I want to set for myself,” said Hoover. Hoover, with more than half of his trip expenses covered by the Honors College, is just one of many students who have been able to explore the world thanks to the generous support of Ron and Laura Strain. Laura and her late-husband Ron have committed more than $6 million to the Honors College, including endowing it in 2015. “Exploring the ecology of cave systems in Vietnam is the kind of unique experience that alters a person’s life in profound ways—it cannot just be found in a classroom, “ said Dr. James B. Williams, Strain Honors College Dean. “I’m so excited to see the final research project that emerges from Jackson’s efforts and I’m so pleased that he took full advantage of
what the Honors College has to offer here at UIndy.” Hoover credits Wiseman for opening his eyes to a side of biology he had never considered until his sophomore ecology class, igniting a passion for a hobby he plans to continue for decades to come. “When I pitched this idea as a potential Honors Project, I literally watched Jackson lean forward and light up with excitement,” said Wiseman. “Jackson is one of the finest students I’ve ever had the privilege of instructing. He’s the kind of student that I hope all UIndy students aspire to be and he helps me to be the kind of instructor whom I aspire to be too.” For Hoover, the trip has changed his perspective for life. Immersed in a strange
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MAGAZINE // WINTER 2024
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