I’m originally from the southern California coast and have lived in many places across the U.S., primarily in the west, before moving to Utah. I’m a first-generation college graduate, receiving my degree from Southern Utah University in Communication with an emphasis in Media Studies. After graduating, I worked for Salt Lake City doing communication outreach and public engagement. I’m currently pursuing a graduate degree in Environmental Humanities at the University of Utah and work for the Salt Lake City Department of Sustainability (SLCgreen) as a Community Outreach Coordinator.
Having grown up around the ocean, beautiful mountain ranges, and Utah’s iconic red rocks, I’ve always loved the outdoors but never really considered myself “outdoorsy.” I’ve found in navigating outdoor recreation and trying new activities however, it can sometimes be intimidating and frustrating being the only person who looks like me. A week-long river trip in 2020 helped me realize I wanted to pursue my love for the environment while helping marginalized communities have more access to the outdoors. During graduate school, I’ve loved partnering with some local organizations in pursuit of my interests in environmental equity, nature and human health, water conservation, and creative community engagement.
When not in school I can be found reading, writing, paddle boarding, enjoying a lot of tea, adventuring, or still mourning the retirements of Carli Lloyd and Drew Brees.