Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – Bear Hunting Proposed Changes

As a Graduate Research Assistant, Elise Michelle Lorenzo, M.A. (Ph.D. expected August 2025), worked on a high-stakes project with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Her role focused on managing and analyzing a massive dataset, over 20,000 public responses collected through a Qualtrics survey designed to gather public opinion on proposed bear hunting regulation changes.

Elise formatted the survey, cleaned the data, and translated numbers into meaning, producing an official report that helped shape how the Commission understood and communicated with the public. At the heart of the project was a delicate balance: creating a fair, sustainable hunting framework while respecting the diverse perspectives of both Florida residents and out-of-state participants.

This was data work with real-world weight, and Elise’s role helped ensure the voices of thousands were heard, clearly and thoughtfully.