Ryan Spencer graduated from Texas State University - San Marcos in December 2009 where he received his BS in Water Studies with a minor in Geology. He continued his education at Texas State University and in December of 2013 graduated with a Masters of Applied Geography in Geographic Information Systems. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Aquatic Resources and Integrative Biology at Texas State University. His research is centered on the impacts of Place-Based Education Pedagogy and Environmental Mindfulness on Informal Science Education. Ryan is currently serves as the Executive Director of the Comal County Conservation Alliance we're he coordinates the efforts of an incredibly talented group of volunteers to, "Protect land, water, and wildlife in Comal County."His current position experience/responsibilities includes:*Fundraising (Grant Writing, Major Gifts, Event Fundraising, Crowdfunding, Corporate Partnerships)*Strategic Planning *Financial Management *Partnership Development *Membership Campaigns*Social Media*Leadership*Outdoor Education*Public Speaking*Network Development*Grant and Project Management Specialties: GIS/Remote Sensing, Certified Interpretive Guide, Leave no Trace Trainer, Wilderness Medical Institute, Project Wild Certified, Geographic Field Methods, Wild Land Firefighting, Social Media, Fundraising for Nonprofits.