I am an avian ecologist and fine artist whose mission is to combine my scientific background and skills as a professional artist to bring the joy of birds to everyone!
During my Master’s research at the Ohio State University, I investigated the impacts of forest management and tick populations on Appalachian breeding birds (graduated December 2025). While training in the natural sciences, I realized how essential scientific communications are for not only a successful research project, but for bird conservation as a whole. I am now a Project Coordinator with the Dayer Human Dimensions Lab at Virginia Tech for The Flocks Project, a network designed to build community and a sense of belonging in the American Ornithology Society, Wilson Ornithological Society, and Association of Field Ornithologists. Beyond North American ornithology, I previously was the resident ornithologist and tour guide for Reserva Cloudbridge– guiding research and education in the cloud forests of Costa Rica’s Talamanca Mountains.
If I am a bird nerd by day, I am a passionate artist by night! I paint and digitally illustrate wildlife and landscapes with accolades for my work including being named the World Migratory Bird Artist in 2024 with Environment for the Americas. I work as an artist either by contract or freelance typically with local nonprofits. My area of expertise is in traditional media work such as oil and acrylics as well as digital illustration for manuals, merchandise, and other publications nature related! You can view my work under the Portfolio tab above.
Awards and Scholarships in Art
- World Migratory Bird Day Artist, Environment for the Americas (2024)
- Susan K. Black Foundation Scholarship Student (2018, 2019, 2021) for Study in Dubois, Wyoming
- Student Artist of the Year (Age 14-18), American Birding Association (2018)
- Best in Show, “Ag is Cool” Creative Expressions Contest, Ohio Department of Agriculture (2018)
- First Place Ranking in Junior Duck Stamp Contest, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2017)