May Pannchi is a PhD student in environment and resources at the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research investigates how Myanmar immigrant communities in the U.S. sustain identity and belonging through culturally significant crops, gardens, and seed practices, and how extension and development programs can better align with migrants’ values.
Building on her experience working with NGOs and international agencies in Myanmar, she employs community-based, participatory approaches that bridge environmental research with everyday lives and social justice. She also mentors students and fosters inclusive learning environments focused on Indigenous knowledge systems and sustainable action. This interdisciplinary work advances understanding of environmental change within social and cultural contexts.