I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho where I developed a passion for being outdoors and biology. My high school biology teacher encouraged me join the YCC (Youth Conservation Corp) where I was able to work on a black bear study near Council, Idaho, sparking my interest in wildlife management. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management from the University of Idaho. I worked for Idaho Fish and Game doing black bear research while earning my undergraduate degree and for two years after graduating. Next, I became a certified biology and math teacher and began my 31-year teaching career with the Boise School District. During my teaching career, I earned a master’s degree from Boise State University studying the growth and survival of Douglas fir seedlings near Idaho City and a Ph.D. in Education (Curriculum and Instruction), studying the effect of traditional versus an inquiry-based approach to teaching life science on student achievement. Since my retirement from the Boise School District, I teach science at an elementary school as a volunteer and Biology 111 Labs for CWI.
In my spare time, I raise alfalfa hay, hike, bike, garden and spend time with our 3 dogs!