Alexandra Younger

Bridging Archaeology and Geography

Alexandra Younger graduated from the University of North Texas in December 2019 with a master’s degree in Geography. She studied under Dr. Steven Wolverton and Dr. Reid Ferring, focusing her graduate research on lithic production at a Late Archaic through Mesilla Phase archaeological site complex in southeastern New Mexico.

Her work combined archaeological analysis with geographic methods, setting her apart from peers trained in traditional anthropology programs. “Cultural Resources Management archaeologists generally attend anthropology programs,” she explained. “It’s not always necessary if your thesis topic falls within the field. Geographic principles, and specifically the environmental focus of UNT Geography, provided me a framework for my research that carries over to my current projects.”

That interdisciplinary foundation continues to shape how she approaches her work. Alexandra’s geographic background allows her to integrate human-environment perspectives into archaeological interpretation, giving her a stronger understanding of site formation processes and natural landscapes during fieldwork. “Being in the graduate program gave me the skills to conduct high-quality work,” she said. “It also fueled my passion for archaeology and reinforced my desire to protect cultural resources.”

Protecting the Past in the Present

Today, Alexandra Younger works as a Project Archaeologist and Junior Principal Investigator at Integrated Environmental Solutions, LLC in Denton, Texas. Her work focuses on cultural resource management (CRM), a field that balances heritage protection with development and environmental compliance.

She provides consultation services to clients, analyzes artifacts, produces cultural syntheses, and makes recommendations based on state and federal standards for historic preservation. Much of her time is spent in the field, conducting surveys and assessments across national forests in Arkansas and surrounding states.

Community Archaeology and Public Engagement

In addition to her professional work, Alexandra remains dedicated to community involvement. In October 2022, she served on a committee with the Denton Historical Commission to organize Denton’s first public Archaeology Fair as part of Texas Archaeology Month. The event was a success, drawing strong attendance and community enthusiasm. “It went so well that the city plans to make it an annual tradition,” she said.

“One of my passions is getting ordinary citizens and the public involved in archaeology,” Alexandra shared. “When people understand how archaeology connects to place, they care more about preserving it.”

Advice for Future Students

Alexandra encourages current and prospective students to take ownership of their education.

“You will get out of a program what you put in,” she said.

She credits the UNT Geography graduate curriculum and its professors’ emphasis on productivity and achievement for preparing her to excel in both professional and academic environments. “I’ve seen so many UNT Geography alumni succeed in their careers and in doctoral programs,” she said. “During my time in the department, I truly felt supported and cared for as a graduate student. I’m very grateful that I ended up at UNT.”

From field surveys in national forests to local community outreach in Denton, Alexandra Younger exemplifies the balance of scientific rigor and public service that defines UNT Geography alumni. Her path shows how a geographic perspective can deepen not only our understanding of the past but also our commitment to protecting it.