What experience led you to where you are today?
“My background is in design and photography… My first job out of college I was working in tech as a product designer for a local startup but our primary client was Verizon… After leaving that place, I worked for myself for a couple years! In owning my own business, I found a passion for the operations side of work as well…I just really love organization and planning and working with people, so I sought out an administrative position and that’s when I found the land trust! Since we are such a small organization we all get to wear a lot of hats, and I love that this position really evolved to fit my existing strengths in design and photography.”
What is the significance of the place you chose to meet?
“I chose Chestnut Ridge Park because this is my favorite place to go hiking around this area. It’s so close to my house, it’s just a quick 15 minute drive away, and it’s so beautiful here…so many different trails to explore.”
What’s your favorite part about working at the Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust?
“I really love everything about working here. I love being able to promote a mission I believe in, I love the flexibility and all the creative freedom. I love the people I work with and our sunny little corner office full of plants. It’s a great place to be.”
What keeps you motivated?
“It sounds a bit cheesy, but I would have to say the people I work with… I really admire our mission, and all the good work we do… but I am so new to the non-profit world, and Tracy and Laurie have so much experience that it really helps to keep me on track. I’m always learning new things from them!”
What is your favorite season?
“I really like everything except for winter. Since our winter sometimes lasts until June, I would have to say Summer or Fall.”
What brings you joy?
“It’s different every day! Of course, friends and family, and generally connecting with people brings me a lot of joy… I like to challenge myself to look at everything with fresh eyes and curiosity, so I tend to find joy in a lot of small mundane things.”
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
“I really love to lay down in a nice fluffy patch of grass and watch the clouds pass by. Also I love fossil hunting on our Lake Erie beaches.”
