" In my opinion birds are the most awe-inspiring organisms in the natural world that constantly fascinates me. I can trace this love of birds to one individual that I saw high atop a canopy tower in Brasil while studying primates: a Pompadour Cotinga! It is safe to say that I have been "birding" ever since that moment. After graduating from Antioch College with an Environmental Science degree, I moved here to Arizona. I have decided to follow my passion and focus on birds while working in the environmental field. My definition of conservation is literally "for the birds!" I am very happy to be returning to the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival and I look forward to some amazing birding trips with you."