Colorado State University

I joined the inaugural Professional Science Master’s cohort in Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management at CSU after completing my B.S. degrees in 2012. My PSM capstone project included laying the foundation for a new non-profit in the northern Colorado area including completion of the 501(c)(3) application. Through past experiences and PSM program opportunities, I found a passion for volunteer management in zoo settings. Post-graduation I was ecstatic to join Denver Zoo in volunteer support and management, eventually working in internal communications and various HR functions as well. As an organization with over 500 volunteers working in almost all departments, the zoo has a complex and innovative approach to volunteer management and I feel lucky to have worked with and supported the volunteer program there, including the ability to work closely with volunteer leaders in the shared governance model at DZ. I also proudly served as a member of the zoo’s DEAI Committee and Safety Committee, working to improve belonging and welfare for zoo staff and volunteer alongside zoo leadership and interdepartmental committee members. In getting to see the PSM program grow and flourish from afar during my time at Denver Zoo, including the expansion of program-specific courses and opportunities as well as the continued success in cultivating innovative and thoughtful animal welfare leaders in the field, I returned to CSU and the PSM program in 2022 after 7 years at Denver Zoo to support the continued growth and success of the program. Her role includes instruction of NSCI 688 series and 693 courses, guest speaker and field trip logistics, and general program and student support. She is an avid learner and animal lover (especially cats) who also enjoys travel, live music, movies, and taking pottery classes through Fort Collins Rec.