People

Earth and Environmental Science teacher at Southern High School

M.S Forestry NC STate University

B.S Biology Sewanee: The University of the South

Dr. Miriah M. Russo Kelly (she/her) is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Science in the Department of Environment, Geography, and Marine Sciences at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT. Dr. Kelly’s teaching and research focuses on the human dimensions of ocean and coastal climate change issues. Dr. Kelly works in the area of environmental management and decision-making, and studies collaborative and transdisciplinary approaches to addressing complex environmental problems. Dr. Kelly is also dedicated to translational environmental sciences, including environmental communication, environmental education, and environmental engagement.

Kyra Stephenson (she/her) is a passionate educator, nature advocate, and the founder of Nature Mind Solutions LLC, a consulting company dedicated to promoting nature-based learning. With over two decades of teaching experience, she has inspired countless individuals through her innovative approaches to education. As a New York State Master Teacher Emeritus and a Nature-Based Learning Coach at Anna Murray-Douglass Academy School #12, Kyra has successfully integrated a comprehensive nature-based learning program into public education. Kyra's commitment to environmental education has earned her recognition, including the prestigious Environmental Innovation Award. Kyra is also an active member of Rochester's Nature Everywhere Action Team, advancing the Children and Outdoor Bill of Rights initiative under the Children and Nature Network. Beyond her professional achievements, Kyra finds joy in her role as a spouse and parent to three children. She cherishes moments spent immersed in nature, fueling her ongoing commitment to ecological responsibility and holistic education.

I am a recent graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Science and am pursuing the NC Environmental Education Certificate!

Rachel Arbor is a Presidential Award winner whose work has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, the EPA, and the White House. She is the CEO and Founder of Gaia Scholastic and the NY State Lead for SubjectToClimate. For both of these roles, her mission is to cultivate a generation of environmentally-literate global citizens by integrating nature and environmental concepts into the learning experiences of students of all ages and abilities. With a Masters in Education, she builds interdisciplinary content in a way that challenges students to make connections: with themselves, with each other, and with nature, across content areas. She trains teachers across the country on how to re-shape their curriculum through an environmental lens, coaches students on how to turn their climate anxiety into climate action, and fosters environmental connection in and out of the classroom.