What is your role at Waterman Lab/CFAES?
I am the Volunteer and Program Manager for Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens
What brought you to The Ohio State University?
I came to OSU for my bachelor's degree in 2016. I was able to work for Chadwick Arboretum through my undergrad and was lucky to be hired on as an Apprentice Horticulturalist after graduating in 2020. I transitioned to my current role in August of 2024, and am currently completing my Master of Plant Health Management here at OSU.
Why work for The Ohio State University?
Working for OSU has opened many doors for me that I didn't think were possible, such as getting my masters degree. There are tons of opportunities and resources for both staff and students that Ohio State offers.
Where is your hometown?
Yellow Springs, Ohio.
What interested you in your field of study?
I have always loved nature and the outdoors. I became passionate about environmental sustainability in college and decided to get my degree in Natural Resource Management with a focus on Sustainable Agriculture. My passion for horticultrue started during my internship at Chadwick Arboretum in 2019 where I was introduced to the world of public gardens and arboreta. Plants can change the world!
What is one way that you currently suport teaching, research, and/or Extension programs?
Chadwick Arboretum supports teaching, research, and Extension in many, many ways. The arboretum is an outdoor, living classroom, and it can be hard to quantify just how much of a resource it is to the Ohio State community!
What is an interesting fact about you?
I studied abroad in Nantes, France for one year in high school where I lived on a horse farm with a host family. I keep in touch with my host family, and hope to visit again soon, although my French is very rusty now!