I am Em Shipman, Executive Director at KidsGardening, a national nonprofit organization that supports educators and caregivers who bring the life-changing benefits of gardening to kids. With 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, I have led transformative programs in food systems, agriculture, and education, focusing on nonprofit leadership, movement building, marketing, social entrepreneurship, and program development.My vision is grounded in the principle that children are able to realize their full potential when they have access to healthy food and hands-on, outdoor play and learning opportunities. I am passionate about empowering the next generation to create a sustainable future for themselves and the planet. As a leader, I collaborate with cross-organizational and external stakeholders, raise funds, and design and implement projects using systems thinking and design thinking approaches. As a gardener, I advocate for the benefits of garden-based learning and place-based education and share my expertise and enthusiasm with others. As a mom, I witness how gardening helps my kids grow and nurture their curiosity, joy, and wonder in the natural world.