College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Community Sustainability

Hometown: Landenberg, PA

Advisor: Dan McCole

I cannot remember much of my childhood that wasn't spent outside. I grew up living between two protected areas, White Clay Creek State Park in Delaware, and Fair Hill Management Area in Maryland. When I wasn't frequenting those parks, I was outside playing sports like lacrosse or football. Both of those gave me a deep appreciation for the outdoors and all it can provide and led me to the CANR here at MSU. After four years of undergraduate education, I graduated with degrees in Environmental Studies and Sustainability as well as Sustainable Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

Since first coming to MSU in 2016 I have worked with the Parks and Recreation divisions in both Delaware and Michigan and have frequented quite a few state and national parks. These experiences have molded a deep appreciation for parks and protected areas as I have seen first-hand just how special these areas are and how much they can provide for so many people both intrinsically and extrinsically. This has inspired me to want to work to protect and manage these areas in the most sustainable way possible so that generations to come can enjoy the same experiences that I have been so lucky to have.

As of now, my interests are in exploring ways accommodate the increase in popularity of protected areas while also ensuring the protection of the resources therein and the visitor experience. And, ultimately, I hope to be heavily involved in park management, and strive to work as a park superintendent someday.

In my spare time you can find me hiking, camping, backpacking, traveling, spending time with family and friends, watching and playing sports, or simply doing anything outside.