I am a former AP Environmental education teacher and currently a Ph.D. student in STEM education at NC State. My research and research interests include environmental education in formal and informal settings, and advancing community level environmental literacy thru school-community-business partnerships. On a personal level I am a state certified wildlife rehabilitator and apiarist. Additionally I am passionate about gardening with native species and have shared my knowledge of beekeeping and gardening with non-profit groups, schools and my community.