This is a guest blog written by our Associate Director, Sara.
I feel very fortunate to be joining a place-based organization with a team that consistently produces really excellent and impactful work. I’m looking forward to getting to know the organization and this remarkable place, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share a bit about myself in this blog.
Early Career
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan, where I studied Psychology and Environmental Science. After graduating, I moved to California to be near my family, and I took a job at Yosemite National Park. During my time there, I got my first real look into park leadership and management, which left me curious about the policy and funding structures that shape environmental work behind the scenes.
After two years, I felt compelled to go back to school. I grew up in Montreal, so my understanding of the US government had some real gaps in it, and I knew that to be effective in this field, I needed a much stronger grasp of environmental policy.
A Focus on Water, Policy, and Communication
I chose the master’s program at UCSB’s Bren School of Environmental Science & Management for its strong specialization in environmental policy, a newly launched core course on environmental justice, and a focus area in strategic environmental communication. It certainly didn’t hurt that UCSB and the Bren school are absolutely stunning.
During my first year, Bren’s interdisciplinary coursework helped me discover a strong interest in water management, which led me to pursue an additional specialization in water resource management. I’m particularly drawn to freshwater management, both above and below ground. In my final quarter, I had the opportunity to pursue a passion project: in collaboration with my friend’s writing and my professor’s research, I illustrated an informational booklet on groundwater recovery. It allowed me to do one of the things I love most – making complex science clear and accessible.
Outside of Work
Outside of work, I can usually be found at the pottery wheel, in a yoga class, or on a very long walk. I enjoy spending time outdoors with the people I care about, and I appreciate putting down roots in the places I live, which is something I’m especially looking forward to as I settle into this area.
Joining the Estuary Program
I’m now with the Estuary Program, and I feel very fortunate. Doing place-based work in a setting this beautiful is exactly what I hoped for, and I’m thrilled that my degree and experience have led me here. This role draws on my strongest skills, and I look forward to contributing to the excellent work this program carries out.
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