People

Gustavo grew up in Southeastern Brazil, inspired by nature on his grandparents’ farm. His passion for nature motivated him to become a field biologist and led him to a career path in academic research and higher education. Gustavo dedicated over 15 years to help college students connect their curiosity about nature to science, guiding them through the transformative path of critical thinking. He believes that such transformation, however, should not be restricted to colleges, but accessible to everyone.

In 2018, Gustavo chose Connecticut to be his new home, and non-formal science education and outreach to be his new career. He currently serves on the Board of the NAAEE affiliate in Connecticut (CT Outdoor & Environmental Education Association) and has been supporting outdoor education as the perfect format to stimulate kids’ and adults’ curiosity about nature and connect them to science.

In 2020, Gustavo joined the Neighborhood Leadership Program from the Community Foundation for the Greater New Haven. Inspired by the stories and actions of so many community leaders, Gustavo decided to found the Science Yourself initiative as a way to celebrate, connect, and support professionals and community members that value science literacy, critical thinking, and science-based programs in the Greater New Haven area and across Connecticut.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonciacruz/ 

After teaching AP Environmental Science for nearly 15 years and running a school greenhouse program for Kindergarten through 5th graders I was able to take that experience into my new position as Education Directory at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. 

I am a Health, Safety and Environment Manager (HSE Professional, GradIOSH, MIIRSM, WSO Certified Instructor, certified Facilitator Level 2 and AOSH UK certified Master Trainer). I conduct training and awareness sessions related to Environment protection. I am also certified in following environmental fields:

ISO 14001:2015 Lead Auditor,

IEMA Environmental Sustainability Skills for Managers Course Certificate,

IFC PS on Environmental and Social Sustainability

Level 2 Award in Environmental Principles and Best Practices

Level 3 Award in Environmental Management

Dana Packer

I am certified 7-12 English teacher in the state of Connecticut and work in the Grants and Special Programs department at EdAdvance helping to serve 31 public school districts as well as the larger community in Northwest Connecticut.  I am a proud mom and have a love for Classic English Literature.