As part of our FST Faculty's 40th Anniversary Year of Celebrations (running from October 1, 2024 to October 31, 2025), we are thrilled to kick off our FST Staff Recognition Programme! This initiative honours the incredible contributions of our faculty and staff, highlighting their dedication and achievements throughout the years.

This month (October 2024), we’re proud to feature one of our pioneering FST colleagues, Dr. Casey Allen. Dr. Allen has been a cornerstone of our FST community, exemplifying excellence in both teaching and research.

Read all about Dr. Allen's journey and contributions in the article provided below:
 

This October 2024, we (the Faculty of Science and Technology – FST at The UWI Cave Hill Campus) are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Dr. Casey Allen, one of our dedicated Lecturers in the field of Environmental and Earth Science within our Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences (BCS). With a remarkable career spanning twenty-five (25) years, Dr. Allen is not just an educator; he is a passionate teacher-scholar whose contributions to the field have made a significant impact.

A Journey Rooted in Exploration

Dr. Allen’s love for exploration and fieldwork has taken him to various universities around the world, including his previous role as a Coordinator for the BSc/MD programme at St. George’s University in Grenada. It was here that he fell in love with the Lesser Antilles and further expanded his love of Geography.



His research interests are as diverse as they are fascinating, encompassing geomorphology - The "Science of Scenery"- Landscape Studies, and the cultural aspects of stone and rock deterioration. Dr. Allen’s expertise extends to humanistic geography, sense of place, rock art and biocrusts, allowing him to explore the intricate relationships between humans and their environment.

A Legacy of Scholarship

Dr. Allen is a prolific contributor to academic literature, having authored four (4) books and five (5) training manuals, including a widely used introductory physical geography laboratory manual. His research has resulted in over sixty (60) peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, earning him recognition in professional circles, including nearly sixty (60) invited presentations and speaking engagements.

His research funding totals an impressive US$1.2 Million since 2008, showcasing his ability to secure resources for innovative projects that usually involve students. His recent publications include:
 

• 2024: Serrano-Meza, A., Vigueras-Cortes, J.M., & Allen, C.D. "Municipal Wastewater Treatment in a Hybrid Biofiltration System Packed with Agave Fiber". Revista Mexicana de Ingeniería Química Link: IA24347 Vol. 23 No. 3 (2024) (rmiq.org).
• 2023: Allen, C.D., et al. "The Rock Art Stability Index: A Non-Invasive Rapid Field Assessment for Condition Evaluation". In Global Perspectives for the Conservation and Management of Open Air Rock Art Sites, Routledge Link: Global Perspectives for the Conservation and Management of Open-Air Ro (routledge.com)
• 2022: Allen, C.D. & Paradise, T.R. "Relict Landforms and the Legacy of Tony Orme". Physical Geography Link:  Full article: Coastal relict landforms and the legacy of Tony Orme (tandfonline.com).

A Commitment to Teaching and Mentorship

Dr. Allen’s teaching prowess has not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple accolades, including the Higher Education Distinguished Teaching Award from the National Council for Geographic Education in 2017, and the Fulbright Scholar designation in 2015-2016. His commitment to student mentorship earned him the Mentor of the Year Award in 2013 at the University of Colorado Denver where he was also a tenured Associate Professor.



As he reflects on his teaching philosophy, Dr. Allen states, “Opportunities arise because you make them happen. Work hard and persevere”. This ethos resonates deeply with his students, inspiring them to engage critically with their studies and the world around them.

Beyond Academia

When he’s not in the classroom or conducting research, Dr. Allen enjoys exploring the world, sampling fresh berries, and embracing all things Hello Kitty. His enthusiasm for life and learning is infectious, making him a beloved figure among his FST students and colleagues alike.



So, Join us (the FST Faculty at The UWI Cave Hill Campus) in celebrating Dr. Casey Allen this October 2024 as we honour his exceptional contributions to environmental science and education. His work exemplifies the spirit of exploration and inquiry that is vital to understanding our planet.





To learn more about Dr. Allen's research and insights, connect with him on ResearchGate or LinkedIn.