Public engagement specialist for the City of Fort Collins’ natural areas department
24 Years Old • Fort Collins
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I have a bachelor’s degree in history from Colorado State University, where I led the Ram Stories: COVID-19 Oral History Project research team. At CSU’s Public and Environmental History Center, I conducted research for Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the National Register of Historic Places. I also managed the social media channels for the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center, Ute Indian Museum and the Center for Colorado Women’s History at History Colorado. My love of history, public education and human connection will always drive my work and lifestyle.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
As an education assistant, I organized dozens of field trips with the Boys and Girls Clubs, did special event outreach and assisted with K-12 field trips. I was hired as a public engagement specialist in 2024 and currently manage the volunteer and partner-led community education program for the City of Fort Collins’ natural areas. There, I helped create a jointly managed volunteer cohort between Fort Collins’ and Larimer County’s natural resource departments. I’ve organized hundreds of outreach events that connect underserved communities with natural resources, and I’ve trained dozens of volunteers while developing a deep appreciation for the inner workings of a successful, community-driven municipality.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I helped start and am the deputy director of the newly founded Young Professionals Section within the National Association for Interpretation (NAI), an international nonprofit based in Fort Collins. In this volunteer role, I provide leadership and resources to other young professionals in the organization and create comfortable spaces to discuss challenges and celebrations in education fields. The day-to-day tasks in interpretive fields always look different, and this community section has increased a sense of belonging, friendship and comradery among the early career folks in the NAI.
What do you consider the biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
My greatest accomplishment is creating the 2025 Natural Areas Explorer publication. This is an award-winning resource featuring a six-month event and activity calendar, with artwork submitted by local creatives, photos taken by volunteers and resources provided by community partners, along with safety and regulation information. Putting it together involved many moving parts and steep learning curves, from organizing the artist submissions to coordinating volunteers and partners for community activities and finalizing the printing and publication delivery details. It’s exciting that thousands of copies are circulating the community.
Tell us something unique about you.
I have Waardenburg Syndrome, which affects the pigmentation of parts of my skin, hair and eyes. Kids that I work with often ask me questions about the white stripe in my hair and the white spots on my arm, and I reassure them that our differences make us special. It also impacts my hearing: I’m fully deaf in my right ear.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
Healthy, happy and working hard. I’m eager to take advantage of unexpected opportunities that I encounter. I would love to work in public education and community outreach at a museum. I plan to continue my work within community-oriented organizations and strengthen my skills and passion in public education and volunteer coordination. I hope to remain well connected in the natural resource world and encourage people to get outside. Maybe I will have a chicken coop.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
I would remind my younger self to enjoy the work. I often get caught up in doing the next project to further my goals and forget to celebrate all that I have accomplished along the way. I would also tell my younger self to take pride in my abilities and take the time to celebrate. I would advise that trying my best is all that I can do, and that is enough.
Why have you made the environment a focal point of your career and volunteer work?
Our outdoor spaces and trails are well loved, and our collaborative management practices aim to create welcoming and safe spaces for all members of the community. Spending time in nature can be exciting, reflective and immensely beneficial to our mental, physical and social health. I’ve always been happiest when I’m outside, and I believe that sharing the wonders of the local environment with community members encourages them to care for their outdoor spaces and support public land conservation.
How did you help start the Young Professionals Section, and what is its mission?
Fellow NAI members and I formed a leadership group, collected support in our widespread communities, wrote a section proposal and presented it to the NAI board, where it was voted through. We continued promoting involvement at the 2024 NAI National Conference by hosting a first-timers’ meetup. We now host monthly community meetings with different themes and guest speakers and share a monthly newsletter. The mission of the Young Professionals Section is to build an international network to support young interpreters through connections, leadership opportunities, mentorship and professional development.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Public education is largely dependent on passionate, kind and knowledgeable volunteers. The nuanced facets of landscapes, wildlife and histories are always evolving. Education and interpretation are reliant on honest collaboration and a willingness to try new things. While in college, fearing the impending pandemic and isolated in my room, I read a common quote that said, “If you are lonely, volunteer.” I was lonely, so I began to volunteer, and I felt more connected to my community. Working alongside compassionate volunteers is one of the joys of my life, and I learn from them every day.
Local business shoutout:
Curiosities is my favorite place to get gifts for other people. The oddities, trinkets and Fort Collins souvenirs are fan favorites. I can get NeeDohs, beautiful jewelry and funny white elephant gifts all at the same place. I also love Wolverine Farm Publick House, as it’s one of my favorite spots to grab a coffee, read a book or get some work done. The decor and ambiance are calming and provoke curiosity.
