Introducing SGDE Undergraduate Representatives for AY2026-27
BA Geography - Austin McCrary
"My name is Austin McCrary. I am a Junior geography BA major. I grew up in Surprise, Arizona for the first 18 years of my life before moving to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona. I began my time at the university originally as a history major and then transitioned to geography during my first year after discovering a passion for critical theory, spatial thinking, and human geography. Outside of class I enjoy reading, playing video games, watching movies, listening to music, and traveling. I plan to continue to pursue my interest in geographic thought in graduate school after graduating with hopes of becoming a teacher and educator in the future."
BS Geography – Anika Sharma
Anika Sharma (she/her) is a junior in the Bachelor of Science in Geography program and serves as the undergraduate representative for the major. She works in Dr. Chris Lukinbeal's Cosmic Explorer Siting Lab, where she contributes to GIS-based spatial analysis supporting the site selection process for the next generation gravitational wave observatory in the United States.
Anika is a big believer in undergraduate research and thinks there's something really special about getting to apply what you're learning in class to an actual research project.
She loves SGDE and is so grateful for the incredible faculty and staff who make it such a welcoming community.
Outside the lab, Anika works at Catalyst Studios and is looking forward to putting together joint events that bring more students into ENR2 and show them everything the building has to offer.
BS GIST - Daniel Jesus Trujillo
"Hi, my name is Daniel Jesus Trujillo but you can call me DJ, I am heading into my fourth year, however this is my first semester as a GIS Major with a minor in Urban and Regional Development. I am interested in how GIS can be used to better understand communities and help create smarter plans. Through my coursework I've gained experience with mapping and spatial analysis tools, and I am continuing to build my skills. I am excited to be a part of SGDE Major Reps Council and to learn more about the department through my peers, faculty, and others in the field. I am hoping to be able to contribute by bringing my perspective from my major and help students exploring the Geography department."
BA Environmental Studies - Rylee Barnett
"My name is Rylee Barnett and I am currently a freshman with a major in environmental studies. I am very excited for my role as the Environmental Studies Representative. I was born and raised in Tucson and live with my family of two brothers, mother and father. I currently have two dogs and a beta fish. I love trying new things and traveling when I get the chance. I have a large passion for the environment and hope to do something worthwhile for our climate."
BA Food Studies - Lily McGrath
"My name is Lily McGrath and I am the Food Studies representative. I am a food studies major, minoring in pre-law and climate change & public health. I have been in food studies since my second semester freshman year, and I have loved every bit of it! Outside of school, I work at UA's Outdoor Recreation program (come check us out, we're in South Rec by the bouldering wall!) and love to hike, bike, whitewater raft, and make ceramic mugs and bowls on the pottery wheel. I am looking forward to being able to represent food studies in SGDE!"
BS Urban and Regional Development - Rileigh Burch
"Hello! My name is Rileigh Burch and I am so excited to serve as the 2026-27 Major Representative for Urban and Regional Development. I am a W.A. Franke Honors student double majoring in both Geography and UREG. Since transferring to the University of Arizona from community college, I have had a great experience with the SGDE, and I’m eager to work with faculty and peers throughout the year!
A large focus of my studies has been GIS. I am most interested in the capabilities that GIS has when it comes to urban planning. I am starting work on my honors thesis, in which I will explore themes of urban sprawl and public transportation in Tucson. Outside of class, I work part-time and enjoy spending time with my cat."