Passionate environmental studies instructor skilled in student mentoring and online teaching. Proven ability to develop engaging curricula and facilitate experiential learning that accommodates diverse learning styles, driving student success and engagement.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Adjunct Instructor- Environmental Studies
University of Tampa
08.2024 - Current
Developed and delivered engaging course materials aligned with academic standards.
Utilized pedagogy to provide unique experiential learning opportunities on-campus and off-campus outdoor, in nature.
Facilitated classroom discussions to enhance student comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Evaluated student performance through assessments, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
Implemented innovative teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
Mentored students in academic planning, fostering a supportive educational environment.
Managed classroom effectively to maintain a positive learning environment for all students.
Conducted research on pedagogical best practices to continually improve instructional methods.
Zoologist Specialist, Senior 1
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
01.2023 - Current
Developed and implemented guest engagement strategies to enhance visitor experiences.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to coordinate special events and educational programs.
Created Busch Gardens first inclusive, "Sensory-Friendly Insider" tour experience.
Trained new staff on operational procedures and customer service standards.
Completed daily SOPs for the training and care of over 70 ambassador animals.
Led on-property and off-property events and media appearances with animal ambassadors with TV station such as ABC7 Fort Myers and Fox News 13.
Lead Naturalist and Volunteer Coordinator
Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation
08.2020 - 01.2023
Developed and implemented educational programs on local ecosystems and wildlife conservation.
Conducted guided nature walks, enhancing visitor engagement and appreciation of natural resources.
Collaborated with community organizations to promote environmental awareness initiatives.
Trained and mentored new staff on best practices in naturalist programming and visitor interaction.
Assessed program effectiveness through participant feedback, refining offerings for continuous improvement.
Coordinated volunteer efforts for park clean-up events, fostering community involvement in conservation activities.
Spearheaded habitat restoration projects, contributing to biodiversity preservation in local parks.
Created and led the Okee-Teen volunteer program, which included recruiting, training, and mentoring teens while coaching them in their roles as environmental educators and stewards.
In charge of animal husbandry SOPs for over 30 educational animals.
Outreach and Research Scientist
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
05.2019 - 05.2021
Led interdisciplinary research projects focusing on marine ecosystems and environmental conservation efforts.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design innovative experiments addressing key challenges in marine biology.
Established best practices for laboratory safety and compliance, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards within research operations.
Filmed marine science virtual field trip education videos in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club
Developed educational content and activities for a Marine Science Activity Book for grades 4th & up.
Created graphic designs for the Marine Science Activity Book.
Education
Master of Science - Environmental Sustainability Education
Prescott College
Prescott, AZ
05-2026
Master's of Education - Environmental Education
Florida Atlantic University
Jupiter, FL
05-2023
Bachelor of Science - Ecology
Christian Brothers University
Memphis, TN
05-2019
Skills
Student mentoring
Online teaching
Curriculum creation
Inclusive teaching
Project-based learning
Learning styles
Timeline
Adjunct Instructor- Environmental Studies
University of Tampa
08.2024 - Current
Zoologist Specialist, Senior 1
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
01.2023 - Current
Lead Naturalist and Volunteer Coordinator
Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation
08.2020 - 01.2023
Outreach and Research Scientist
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
05.2019 - 05.2021
Master of Science - Environmental Sustainability Education
Adjunct Instructor of Addiction and Integrated Treatment Studies at Clark State Community CollegeAdjunct Instructor of Addiction and Integrated Treatment Studies at Clark State Community College