People

I am currently a graduate student at UNCW pursuing my MS in Environmental Science and MAT in Middle Grades Education. My background is in biology with a concentration in microbio and marine science, as well as in experiential education primarily through rock climbing and other adventure-ed programs.

I'm a teacher at the Schlitz Audubon Nature School, where I teach students between the ages of three and six in an outdoor, nature-based environment. 

Allison Rogers is the Education Director for Friends of Rye Nature Center. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from Manhattanville College, specializing in social studies and special education. While earning her degree, she would spend her summers as a group leader for the Rye Nature Center Day Camp, engaging middle schoolers and inner-city campers in ecology lessons and teambuilding opportunities. Passionate about place-based learning and developing connections to nature, Allison accepted the position of Education Director and Camp Director in 2013. She continues to co-teach in Forest Preschool and oversees the administration of our education programs. She works closely with the Environmental Education team to develop curriculum that is based on STEM concepts and is aligned with Next Generation Science Standards and our strategic planning initiatives.

Jimena Cuenca supports NAAEE's digital presence, helping maintain and improve our websites like eePRO so that it serves as a welcoming and useful space for environmental educators. Jimena brings a deep curiosity about how online communities grow, connect, and collaborate. She enjoys learning new digital tools and is always looking to make our web spaces more engaging. When not at work, she's walking her huskies and birding.

Anne Umali has been working in the environmental education field since 2000 and has built a strong passion for teaching and training others, especially when it comes to leadership training, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Anne is the Project Manager for the ee360 Project at the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), U.S. EPA’s most recent National Environmental Education & Training Program. Before NAAEE, she was the Project Manager for EECapacity, the U.S. EPA’s National Environmental Education & Training Program housed at Cornell University 2011–2016.

Madeline is an international programs specialist at NAAEE, supporting the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), youth leadership programs, and other global initiatives.

Katie is a dedicated elementary educator, creative entrepreneur, and lifelong learner who is passionate about helping others grow. With nearly a decade of teaching experience, she strives to create engaging, supportive learning environments where every child can succeed. Outside the classroom, Katie channels her creativity through her handcrafted beaded accessories business, combining artistry with meaningful connections. She values faith, family, kindness, and continuous personal growth, and enjoys setting new goals, staying active, and making lasting memories with loved ones. Whether she's teaching students, creating something new, or embracing life's next adventure, Katie is committed to making a positive impact and inspiring others through compassion, creativity, and authenticity.

I have been teaching for 27 years in both Massachusetts and Vermont. I have taught every kind of science from k-12, as well as Math, STEM, STEAM, and Enginering/Technology. I am a very hands-on project-based teacher so I thought this training would be interesting.

Jordan Bantuelle founded the Burrow Nature Center and leads its Forest School program in connecting children with nature through hands-on exploration and play-based learning. Jordan manages 111 acres at the Burrow, restoring pine savannah habitat through prescribed burning and sustainable forestry. He teaches practical skills including foraging, gardening, raising animals, natural building, and permaculture design. Jordan's philosophy centers on meeting human needs while enhancing ecosystems and building community connections.