Since completing a B.S. in Environmental and Forest Biology from the State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry in 1999, I have had the pleasure of working as a research assistant with many exciting plant science labs across the country. This work has allowed me to explore mycorrhizal structures in loblolly pine, breeding system studies in native Hawaiian flora, and flower color evolution with fantastic scientists and educators. More recently, I have worked with the Boulder Apple Tree Project as a project coordinator. In this capacity I have been able to work with students, researchers, and community members towards a goal of mapping and measuring the apple trees of Boulder County and beyond. As a graduate student, my research interests include expanding course-based undergraduate research experiences into community college classrooms, engaging those students with community members through long-term ecosystem services studies, and professional development for college faculty to encourage research in their introductory biology courses at their institutions. Outside of research I can be found running (love the NYC marathon!), reading, baking (so much baking), and spending time with my family.