Meet Bella, Community Engagement Coordinator

This Blog is written by Bella, our Community Engagement Coordinator.

With a background in both environmental science and journalism, at first glance, my path may seem atypical. While many people view science and communication as separate worlds, I see them as deeply intertwined.

Communication and Conservation

Whether it’s through writing, visual media, or hands-on engagement, I’m passionate about presenting information in a way that’s clear, compelling, and accessible to all audiences.

I believe that effective communication doesn’t just inform. It also builds momentum because people are most likely to protect what they know, love, and understand. When something feels personal, when it connects to your values and daily life, it becomes easier to care and easier to act.

*Bella (center) working on a Morro manzanita monitoring project in collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service*

Call to Action

Thanks to my outdoor-enthusiast parents, I was exposed to nature from an early age. Camping, tidepooling, whitewater rafting, backpacking—these experiences helped me form a deep appreciation for the natural world.

*Bella with her parents (who met as river guides for the same company) on a rafting trip celebrating her third birthday.*

But as I grew older, I saw firsthand how the land and ecosystems I had grown to love were being impacted. From the children in my hometown who rarely saw rain to the Thomas Fire that devastated our community, what once felt like distant, abstract issues became tangible realities—ones affecting the people and places I cared about most.

*Ojai Valley School, where Bella went to high school, pictured post Thomas Fire. Image courtesy of Ojai Valley School.*

Moved by these experiences, I focused on growing my skills as a scientist and writer throughout high school and college.

Academic and Professional Journey

In 2024, I graduated from Cal Poly with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and minors in environmental studies and scientific communication.

*Bella hanging out in her favorite cactus garden to celebrate graduating from Cal Poly with her bachelor’s degree.*

During my first year of college, I developed a love for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and its ability to translate complex spatial data into compelling visual narratives. My GIS experience led me to a position with Cal Fire where I used modeling software to analyze the impact of forest management techniques on carbon sequestration and fire behavior. This research led me to pursue a master’s degree in environmental science with an emphasis on fire behavior, environmental policy, and GIS.

*Bella celebrating with her cat Roo after walking in Cal Poly’s Master’s graduation ceremony earlier this summer.*

In addition to my work at Cal Fire, I’ve held a variety of other positions such as expert consultant for a law firm, teaching associate at Cal Poly, journalist for various news outlets, and more.

From presenting at international fire conferences to tabling at local community events, I enjoy making science engaging and understandable for any audience.

Joining the Estuary Program

While I’ve enjoyed working in primarily research and communications focused roles, I always hoped for a position that blended both fields. When I came across the job listing for this role, I knew I had to apply.

*A photo from Bella’s first day at the office. She’s still in awe of the views and doubts that will ever change!*

As I wrap up my first few months in this new position, I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity to further combine my love of science with my passion for writing, community building, and environmental awareness as the new Community Engagement Coordinator.

Outside the Office

When I’m not working, I’m probably out riding my bike. I’ve been a cyclist for the past few years and recently got into ultra-endurance gravel riding. In May, I completed my first ultra (300+ mile race) and have two more on the calendar for 2025! In addition to bikes, I’m a huge fan of reading, gardening, bugging my cat Roo, and hanging out with shelter dogs.

*With this year marking her first-year riding for a professional team, she’s slowly becoming more accustomed to photoshoots and striking silly poses with her bike. Pre-race photo courtesy of Lezyne.*

Help us protect and restore the Morro Bay estuary!

Donate to the Estuary Program today and support our work in the field, the lab, and beyond.
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Oct 10, 2025