Janell Wehr
Stevens Point,WI
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven educator and community outreach professional with over 10 years of experience in horticulture, program management, volunteer coordination, and customer service. Proven track record in developing and delivering educational programs that promote sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Skilled in creating impactful, research-based content, fostering partnerships, and managing cross-functional teams. Adept at communicating complex concepts in accessible ways to diverse audiences and supporting community well-being through hands-on learning initiatives.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Horticulture Educator
UW-Madison Division of Extension
Wausau, WI
02.2019 - Current
- Lead and manage educational programs aimed at improving horticultural knowledge and practices across diverse community groups
- Develop, deliver, and evaluate programs, including youth outreach and Master Gardener volunteer development, focusing on sustainable gardening practices and environmental education
- Established and maintained partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance community outreach and support environmental initiatives
- Coordinated diagnostic services, answering inquiries on topics like plant diseases, tree health, and pest management
- Collaborated with community organizations such as YMCA, 4-H, and Hmong American Center to expand programming for diverse populations
- Delivered impactful programs like "Sowing Success," focusing on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and plant health, fostering hands-on learning in sustainable gardening
- Managed media outreach with over 100 social media posts annually, reaching 23,536 engagements and increasing public awareness of Extension programs
- Increased community engagement by implementing targeted outreach strategies and regularly participating in relevant events.
Claims Contact Center Technician
Sentry Insurance
05.2018 - 10.2019
- Conducted detailed interviews to gather first notices of loss for auto insurance claims, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
- Demonstrated exceptional attention to detail in processing claims, supporting high level of customer satisfaction
- Provided clients with clear and concise information, helping them navigate claims process efficiently
Greenhouse Manager
Jung Garden Center
03.2011 - 05.2018
- Supervised a team of 6-8 greenhouse staff and oversaw day-to-day operations, ensuring high-quality customer service and efficient production
- Managed a $75,000 inventory of plants, implementing a care schedule to maintain healthy stock for retail sales
- Led youth programming, including greenhouse tours and planting activities, fostering an interest in gardening and environmental stewardship
- Developed resource materials, brochures, and signage to educate customers on plant care and pest management
- Increased sales by 15% through improved customer engagement and personalized service
Planetarium Lecturer
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP)
09.2007 - 05.2010
- Delivered educational programs on astronomy and space science to a wide range of audiences, including school groups and general public
- Managed observatory and conducted Night Sky talks, integrating technology to enhance learning experiences
Education
Bachelor of Science - Natural Science, Geoscience, Earth Science
05.2010
Skills
- Program Development and Coordination
- Volunteer & Stakeholder Management
- Public Outreach & Media Engagement
- Environmental Education & Sustainability
- Community Engagement & Partnership Building
- Curriculum Development & Instruction
- Customer Service & Client Relations
- Conflict Resolution & Team Leadership
Accomplishments
- Pollinator Conservation: Developed and delivered programs on pollinator health, reaching over 100 participants annually and encouraging the reduction of pesticide use.
- Therapeutic Horticulture: Designed and implemented horticulture-based programs for community well-being, including grief support groups and therapeutic gardening workshops for justice-involved individuals.
- Master Gardener Program: Coordinated the Master Gardener program, including volunteer recruitment, training, and mentorship, contributing to over 60 community service hours annually.
Timeline
Horticulture Educator - UW-Madison Division of Extension
02.2019 - Current
Claims Contact Center Technician - Sentry Insurance
05.2018 - 10.2019
Greenhouse Manager - Jung Garden Center
03.2011 - 05.2018
Planetarium Lecturer - University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP)
09.2007 - 05.2010
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) - Bachelor of Science, Natural Science, Geoscience, Earth Science
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