Growing up surrounded by forests, I developed a deep-rooted connection to nature and an early appreciation for environmental literacy. This foundation guided my academic pursuits in both the natural sciences and human development, including a focus on language and linguistics as a lens for understanding how people learn and communicate.

My professional experience spans a wide range of educational settings and age groups. I have worked with learners from infancy through older adulthood, serving as a substitute teacher for PreK–12 students, an early childhood educator specializing in infants and toddlers (earning my Child Development Associate Certificate), and a prevention specialist in informal education settings. These roles have shaped my ability to design and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

As the recreation director for Cameron County, I developed programming and opportunities for all ages of our communities, with a focus on the youth. Priority was placed on connecting community members with nature and the outdoors.

Currently, I work with the Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania, where I have the opportunity to connect environmental education with the region’s cultural and industrial history. By highlighting the relationship between people and forests over time, I aim to foster a deeper understanding of how environmental stewardship and heritage are inherently linked. I am also engaged in dark sky advocacy, promoting awareness of light pollution and the importance of preserving natural nightscapes as part of a holistic approach to environmental education.