Why did you choose to go into conservation?

Truthfully, conservation chose me. I’m a lifelong learner, and I’ve always been interested in topics related to societal rights and responsibilities. My first professional experience was at a nonprofit committed to global poverty alleviation; I then shifted to an organization focused on wildlife conservation in Africa. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that so many things we hold dear as a global society are interconnected — and that we as citizens have a role to play in protecting and promoting our shared environment.

What aspects of American Forests’ work are you most excited to be a part of?

Outside of my professional life, I’m pursuing a degree in urban and regional planning. What initially excited me about the work of American Forests was the inclusion of urban forestry as a key program component. While I love and respect forests as remote, wild places, I am aware of the rapid urbanization we’re experiencing on a global level. The growth of cities not only transforms the built environment, but this growth also has a tremendous effect on the natural environment. Cities are expanding, and forests and wild places are receding. Through interventions like American Forests’ Community ReLeaf program, we can demonstrate the value of forests in urban environments and also engage communities around forest conservation and environmental awareness.

What do you think are the most significant challenges facing forests today?

In many ways, I think we as a society are losing our connection to nature. We take for granted the importance of trees and forests and their vital role in ensuring a healthy life for all. That said, many people never have the opportunity to interact with nature on a personal level; they don’t understand its importance to their daily lives. Through programs that engage organizations, people, and communities in forest conservation and imbue the value of wildland forests and public greenspace, American Forests is taking on this challenge.

Do you have a favorite story from your years in the field?

I’ll take “in the field” to mean in nature. Yosemite has always been one of my favorite wild places in the United States. A few years ago, my sister and I made a day trip there and decided we wanted to go for a little hike to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy being in nature. As is often the case with the two of us, we hadn’t fully concocted our adventure, and our little hike turned into a rigorous trek. Long story short, the Yosemite Four Mile Trail is just as described — 4 miles (actually 4.8). One way. It’s actually a fantastic hike from the base of Sentinel Rock climbing to the top of Yosemite Valley at Glacier Point. And the spectacular views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome certainly did not disappoint. Luckily, returning back down the mountain — as we realized we would have to do after making it about halfway up — wasn’t too difficult since we were propelled from the natural high we experienced in one of our favorite places.

What is your favorite tree and why?

I feel a strong connection to the weeping willow! It brings me back to summers spent in central Illinois as a child, chasing fireflies among the pendulous branches.