People

Ariel joined the NAAEE team in September of 2021 as a Senior Administrative Assistant. Prior to this role, she has over 15 years of administrative experience in a laboratory and office setting. She is originally from the suburbs of Illinois and moved to Washington DC in 2009, where she attended Howard University. She received her B.A. in Psychology at the College of Arts and Sciences with a minor focus in Administration of Justice. She aspires to travel the world to learn and experience cultures outside her own. Should Italy be next?

• I am currently developing and starting a small home outdoor program, on five acres in the Sierra foothills, primarily for students and their families who will benefit from outdoor learning experiences that provide sensitivity to sensory and/or learning needs, while providing challenging and fun activities. With a background as a special education teacher informing me, I will include activities that meet a variety of cognitive, cultural, and physical differences, focusing on experiential environmental learning experiences that provide layers of depth to the exploration.

I am an educator and environmental science professional with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Forest Biology and a passion for connecting students with science, nature, and their local environment. I currently work in elementary education while completing my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential through CalStateTEACH. My background includes environmental and outdoor education, STEM and robotics, and hands-on, inquiry-based learning. I am passionate about creating inclusive learning experiences that inspire curiosity, environmental literacy, and lifelong stewardship.  

Laguna Canyon Foundation is dedicated to the conservation and ongoing protection of the South Coast Wilderness. We envision a thriving coastal ecosystem that serves as a source ​of inspiration, connection, and refuge for all.