Interests

• Coniferous trees, rhododendrons, and azaleas
• The role of trees in mitigating climate change and enhancing human well-being
• Inspiring and mentoring Cornell students

About

I work with our evergreen collections and college interns, helping both to grow and flourish. I take care of Conifer Slope and Comstock Knoll.

I believe that growing evergreens is important in climates like that of the Northeast U.S. for the year round benefits they offer, which deciduous or annual plants do not. I believe small parks are extremely important in towns and cities. And I believe planting trees is something that we all can do that really will help save the world.

I have worked closely with more than 100 student interns and have managed to stay in touch with a few of them, as they have graduated and moved into their post-college lives. Helping them develop their curiosity and confidence is among the very best part of any work I have done, still do, or will do in the future.

I hold a bachelor’s in communication and folklore from Western Kentucky University. I have 30 years’ experience in growing or working with coniferous and apple trees.