Meet Miami University graduate student Katy Tanis. Tanis is earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in biology from Miami University through Project Dragonfly’s Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) while working as an illustrator and children’s book writer. Tanis illustrates and designs an array of illustrated products, mostly for children. 

As an AIP student, Tanis takes web-based Miami courses and engages in inquiry activities at locations in New York and at the Bronx Zoo. Tanis connects many of her master’s assignments into her work as an illustrator and writer.

Tanis’s children's books speak on issues of conservation, inclusion, and evolution, and raise awareness of non-charismatic wildlife (the not-so-furry, not-so-cute types of species). Tanis’ books have received worldwide recognition, including this Facebook shoutout by Tan France of the popular American reality television series, Queer Eye. 

Among Tanis’ work:

Love in the Wild

Edward and Annie

I Am the Jungle