Hello all! My name is Kelsey VanHorn, and I’m the newest museum assistant here at the Frost Entomological Museum. I am a State College native, born and raised. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Penn State in painting, drawing, and printmaking, with a minor in environmental inquiry. Though I have little prior experience in entomological matters, I’m beyond excited for this opportunity to learn and expand upon what I’ve been investigating through my minor!

I love the outdoors and every aspect of the natural world, and although I’ve never specifically considered the place that insects occupy in the ecological hierarchy, I’m interested to explore the role they play. I’m passionate about the conservation and preservation of our environment, as well as studying and combating the negative effects of climate change.

At the Frost I will be working on several curatorial projects; my primary focus since beginning work here has been enhancing the organization and storage of our collection. I’m constantly learning new things and asking new questions, and look forward to continuing to explore my growing curiosity here at the Frost!