In this role, I will be working with LFOLA's Center for Conservation Leadership team in order to build relationships with stakeholder partners throughout Lake County to engage communities in interacting with the outdoors. From shadowing scientists to creating interpretive materials, the community engagement opportunities are endless! I am overjoyed at the chance to continue working outdoors, helping young people explore career paths in environmentalism and sustainability and getting more people into LFOLA preserves and especially, Illinois Beach State Park.

As a dedicated Shark TREK, Turtle TREK, and Engineer TREK Instructor at MarineQuest, I am passionate about facilitating place-based and experiential learning opportunities for students aged 10-12. My role encompasses:Shark TREK: Leading educational programs that delve into the fascinating world of sharks, highlighting their biology, behavior, and conservation.Turtle TREK: Educating students on the life cycles, habitats, and preservation efforts of sea turtles, fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of these marine creatures.Engineer TREK: Engaging young minds with hands-on engineering projects that relate to marine science, encouraging problem-solving skills and innovation.Through interactive and immersive experiences, I strive to inspire the next generation of marine scientists and engineers, ensuring that learning is both informative and enjoyable. My work at MarineQuest allows me to blend my love for marine science with my commitment to education, making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners and fostering a deeper connection to our oceans.