While many of you may already know me, allow me to introduce myself! I’m Holly and I’m the new community engagement manager here at Wild Roots Nature Center . While I am new to this role, I am not new to Wild Roots. I got my start at Wild Roots way back in 2019 as an environmental education AmeriCorps Volunteer. During my time, I was able to help connect people to nature and foster stewardship of our lands at all age levels. Even when COVID-19 hit, that didn’t stop us from planning for the future and coming up with ideas for how to engage people in our natural world. From there, I completed two more terms of service with AmeriCorps, one in Florida and one back here at Wild Roots with 815 Outside. (You’ll start to notice a pattern here.) As I finished my undergraduate degree in environmental studies and my master’s degree in higher education and student affairs, I remained a volunteer with Wild Roots, joining in on the fun of Science Saturdays, signature events like Luminaria, and canoe convoys. I simply never left this community. My most recent role as assistant director of campus sustainability at Northern Illinois University has prepared me for my return to Wild Roots. I’ve learned so much over the years about connecting with people of all different backgrounds, bridging the gap between nature and community. I look forward to continuing these conversations as the community engagement manager at Wild Roots Nature Center! Other fun facts: When I’m not in nature, you can find me among a circle of friends, crafting and laughing, making stained glass art, and immersing myself in a good book or tv show. I’m always happy to be a listening ear and I am fiercely loyal. Plus, I’ll never say no to a new adventure!

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I genuinely love people, organized chaos and finding joy in the little things. So, when the opportunity came to join the team at Wild Roots, it felt like everything came together in the best way. Professionally, I’ve spent more years than I’d like to admit in finance, bookkeeping and office management. I actually enjoy spreadsheets, balancing budgets, and making sure all of the behind-the-scenes pieces fit together (yes…I’m one of those people!). But my energetic and bubbly personality doesn’t always fit the type for an accounting aficionado. Before building my career in finance, I earned a degree in Elementary Education. Looking back, it makes perfect sense because teaching and finance have one thing in common – you need patience, flexibility, quick on your feet, and a good sense of humor! I absolutely love the fact that Wild Roots is so committed to outdoor education, and it is one of the biggest reasons I wanted to root myself here as well. Perfect blend of both of my worlds. Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to three wonderful (and very energetic!) boys. They keep me on my toes, whether we’re at a ball field, exploring a new park, or simply enjoying time together. Being their mom has taught me that the best adventures don’t have to be big – they’re usually found in the simple moments, especially when you’re outside exploring together! That’s one of the reasons Wild Roots already feels like the perfect place. I believe nature has an incredible way of bringing people together, slowing us down, and reminding us to appreciate the world around us. Knowing that I get to support an organization that helps families, students and our community experience that every day is something I am truly excited about.  I’m incredibly grateful to be here and can’t wait to be part of everything that makes this place so special. Here’s to new beginnings, new connections, and plenty of time spent enjoying the beauty of nature together!