For Jessie Lanterman Novotny ’10, a drive through Hiram College’s campus at age 15 sparked a life-changing decision: this was where she wanted to be. That instinct set her on a path that continues to shape her personal and professional journey today. 

Originally from Leetonia, Ohio, Jessie majored in biology at Hiram, where she immersed herself in opportunities to learn and grow. She worked at the James H. Barrow Biological Field Station throughout her college years, joined the environmental club and swing dance club, and found her favorite study spot on the swinging benches in the Krabill garden. One class in particular—Matt Hils’ Plant Identification course—proved pivotal, leading her to an internship with the Cleveland Metroparks and ultimately graduate studies in ecology at The Ohio State University. 

Now living in Chardon, Ohio, Jessie has come full circle. She works at the Hiram College James H. Barrow Biological Field Station as a staff lecturer and researcher through a generous grant from the Frohring Foundation. In this role, she teaches biology courses, supervises student capstone research, and leads summer internships in biology. She takes special pride in mentoring undergraduate interns in forest ecology research and in publishing her work on native bees, including recent studies in “PLoS ONE” and “Ecosphere.” 

Beyond her professional achievements, Jessie is equally proud of her personal milestones. Most notably, raising three young children (and future Terriers), a son and twin daughters. 

Jessie credits Hiram not only for the foundation of her career but also for lifelong friendships and even meeting her spouse. “Hiram gave me a lifelong love of learning,” she reflects.

At each important juncture in your life, think first about who you want to be, not what. Surround yourself with people who make you want to be the best version of yourself.

Her advice to current students is simple: “Take in the moments more. Enjoy your time here and don’t sweat the small stuff.” 

Today, Jessie remains deeply connected to Hiram, teaching classes as an adjunct instructor and continuing to mentor young scientists. For her, being part of the Hiram community means finding fulfillment in guiding others along their own journeys of discovery.