When it comes to ridding the environment of spotted lanternflies, it’s good to have a professional on your side. That’s where Rowan College at Burlington County alum Savannah Borden comes in. Borden, who serves as BioAide Team Lead for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, deals directly with controlling and reducing the spotted lanternfly population across the state. 

“My team and I use various methods to mitigate the spread of the SLF (spotted lanternfly) population, from chemical application to research and trapping,” Borden said. “Working outdoors and protecting our ecosystem is very rewarding!”

Borden earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology through RCBC’s 3+1 program, a program which she posits reaffirmed her decision to attend the college. 

“RCBC is one of the most affordable and reputable colleges in New Jersey; it was an easy choice from the beginning,” Borden said. “I graduated in 2019 at such a low price without sacrificing the quality of education I was getting!”

Beyond her academic experiences, Borden found the community at RCBC very inclusive, from the students to the faculty. 

“A core experience for me was working with the radio station,” Borden shared. “I’m so grateful to Jay Varga for showing me the ropes and being my mentor for my time at RCBC. I’ll never forget the night we went off the air, altogether reminiscing on the impact that Z889 had on the college and community.”

When she’s not busy saving the environment from spotted lanternfly destruction, Borden volunteers her time with the nonprofit Philly Goat Project, which provides goat-centered services and community events. Additionally, shortly after moving to Philadelphia, she founded a rollerskating group called Skateadelphia. 

“My cofounder and I have devoted most of our time to this amazing endeavor! When I find time outside of skating, I like to do as many outdoor activities as I can, spend time with my friends and family and explore my wonderful city of Philadelphia,” Borden said.  

To learn more about RCBC’s 3+1 programs, visit rcbc.edu/3plus1.