Ariel’s driving passion for outdoor education

Ariel’s passion for science and outdoor education has guided her academic and career aspirations.

After growing up and receiving a bachelor’s bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and Chemistry in North Alabama, she headed to the west coast. Upon her arrival, Ariel worked for Catalina Island Marine Institute for four years in the positions of Science Educator, Aquarist, and Administrator. 

Education was calling to her a little down south, which is how she ended up in San Diego pursuing a masters degree in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management, while simultaneously working as a Maintenance Diver for SeaWorld San Diego.

Next up for Ariel’s career journey is the Escondido Creek Conservancy! She has been recently onboarded as the Conservancy’s new education manager. 

“The Conservancy has an amazing team of employees and an important mission that I am very happy to be a part of,” Ariel said. “I wanted to find a position where I can help to provide students with the environmental and outdoor education that all children deserve.”

Ariel has hit the ground running at the Conservancy planning for next year’s education programs, facilitating and supervising the Adventure Camp for the remainder of the summer and supporting the education department in any way she can. She is excited to facilitate and create new programs and projects for years to come.

“I am hoping to help this department continue to grow and reach more students in Escondido,” Ariel added. “The more that we can educate the youth in this area, the more they will care for and help to preserve and restore this beautiful watershed for many generations to come.”