I am a founding editor and currently serve as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Melittology, a non-profit, open-access, peer-reviewed journal established at the University of Kansas. Supported by KU Libraries’ Digital Publishing Services Program and the dedication of passionate colleagues from various countries and fields of expertise, the journal has grown into a dynamic hub for bee research. My vision is to position the Journal of Melittology as a leading platform for the global bee science community.

As part of this effort, I worked closely with the leaders of the U.S. National Native Bee Monitoring Research and Coordination Network to coordinate a special issue series. This landmark series highlights the Network’s work to standardize protocols for monitoring native bees, providing a foundation for consistent data collection and broader collaboration across the research community. This special issue not only advances a critical agenda in pollinator science but also demonstrates the journal’s role in addressing global priorities while fostering scientific excellence and accessibility.