Lead Faculty Advisors
Dr. Barbara Blanco-Ulate
Lead Faculty Advisor: Plant Sciences
Dr. Barbara Blanco-Ulate has been part of the Plant Sciences Department faculty at UC Davis since 2016. Originally from Costa Rica, she graduated with a B.S. in Biotechnology Engineering. She later earned a Ph.D. in Plant Biology from UC Davis and conducted her postdoctoral research in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. Her research program revolves around fruit biology and quality. The Blanco Lab uses physiological, genomic, and biochemical approaches to investigate fruit development and interactions between fruit and microbes, with the objective of enhancing the quality, nutrition, and shelf-life of fruit commodities.
Barbara finds joy in teaching and advising, believing that empathy, respect, and recognition of differences can make a positive impact on students' lives. As a member of a minority group, she hopes to be a voice and role model for those who may not see themselves as part of the traditional academic world. Apart from her professional activities, Barbara enjoys spending time with her two kids, as well as running, yoga, and backpacking.
Dr Diane Beckles
Lead Faculty Advisor: Biotechnology
Diane M. Beckles is a Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of California, Davis. She is an integrative postharvest biologist interested in discovering genes that influence the quality of fruit, vegetables, and cereals. A fundamental understanding of these biological pathways is critical for sustainability and global food security.
Dr. Beckles received her BSc. in Biotechnology from the University of Sheffield (UK) with First Class Hons. and her Ph.D. in Plant Biochemistry from the University of Cambridge (UK), followed by postdoctoral training at DuPont Agricultural Biotechnology (USA). She is the author of over 80 research articles, has served on several technical advisory and grant panels, and has worked as a scientific consultant in various capacities.
Dr. Beckles has won multiple awards for her efforts to recruit and retain underserved students. She is invested in her student's success and embraces the philosophy of 'mentoring up'—training students to surpass her own achievements. She recognizes the transformative impact of advising and firmly believes that by nurturing the success of even one student, an advisor holds the potential to influence an entire community.
Dr. Beckles is happiest swimming with the green turtles living in Carlisle Bay, Barbados, the country of her birth.
Dr. Amanda Crump
Lead Faculty Advisor: International Agricultural Development
Dr. Amanda Crump is Associate Professor in International Agricultural Development at University of California, Davis. Her research focuses on the impacts of compounding disasters on vulnerable farmers. She and her research team work to create greater understanding of the constraints faced by vulnerable people who are involved in agriculture, research better strategies to increase the uptake of agricultural technologies by vulnerable groups, and develop better teaching strategies that increase critical thinking skills for U.S. university students who will become development practitioners and for farmers who engage in agricultural extension activities. Dr. Crump has managed over $40 million in international and domestic agricultural research projects and her mentees now work as gender equity specialists, program managers and evaluators throughout the world. She earned a PhD from University of California, Davis, a M.S. degree from Colorado State University, and a B.S. from the University of Idaho. Originally from a farm, Amanda spends her free time listening to music and playing with her dog Sam.
One of the things that energizes me is seeing students thrive at UC Davis. I’m good at connecting students with others in their field of expertise and with the resources they need. I’m encouraged when students think outside the box because the issues that development practitioners encounter are bigger than they used to be. It’s student creativity that may solve our most pressing problems.
Staff Advisors
Anuvir Sekhon
Academic Advisor: Biotechnology
Anuvir (she,her) is a dynamic advisor eager to connect with students and guide them on their academic journey. Graduating from UC Davis in 2021 with a BS in Biopsychology, Anuvir brings a wealth of experience and understanding to her role. As a first-generation student, she understands the challenges students may face and is dedicated to supporting them in reaching their goals. Outside of work, she enjoys boba, indulging in binge reading, exploring her passion for baking, and going on hot girl walks with her husband. Her warmth, experience, and enthusiasm make her a valuable resource for students seeking guidance and support.
Honora Knopp
Academic Advisor: International Agricultural Development and Plant Sciences
Honora (she, her) is the Undergraduate Academic Advisor for the majors of Plant Sciences and International Agricultural Development as well as the Graduate Program Coordinator for the International Agricultural Development Graduate Group in the Department of Plant Sciences. She has worked at UC Davis for 13 years in academic advising, counseling, residence life, orientation, new student programming, first year experience and emergency management. Before joining UC Davis, she was a staff member at Cal Poly Pomona and the University of La Verne where she worked in Residence Life. She holds a BA in Political Science from CPP and a MS in Leadership and Management from ULV. Honora works to support and empower scholars to create their network of support in and out of the classroom. From a holistic and humanistic lens, she champions scholars to create their experience at UC Davis and be open to what is possible, noting that every scholar’s pathway is unique and worthy. Honora describes herself as a lifelong learner, attends Kaia Fit classes and weightlifts, enjoys the flowers from the Student Farm and spending quality time with family and friends.
Selena Li
Student Services Advising: Curriculum, Scheduling and Internships
Selena graduated from UC Davis with degrees in Communication and Chinese. She is a student service advisor specializing in curriculum logistics and scheduling, collaborating with faculty and staff to ensure accurate course listings and the proper allocation of resources. Selena finds the best aspect of working in the Plant Sciences Department to be the supportive and helpful faculty. Outside of work, she enjoys photography and spending time with friends.
Peer Advisors
Ali Arias (she, her, ella)
Major: International Agricultural Development
Ali Arias, a third-year student at UC Davis majoring in International Agricultural Development. Originally from San Diego, Ali has grown fond of UC Davis and considers it a second home.
Beyond the textbooks, Ali enjoys reading, listening to music, and completing puzzles. In addition to her academic pursuits, Ali proudly serves as the IAD Peer Advisor, and she is excited to assist scholars in navigating their own academic paths.
If you're looking for academic guidance or simply wish to connect over shared interests, Ali is always ready to help!