Hannah brings more than 15 years of experience in environmental education, natural sciences, outdoor recreation, and experiential learning to Headwaters Academy. With a background spanning museums, parks and recreation, and some of the most unique educational experiences in the country, Hannah has built her career around helping people develop a deeper understanding of and connection to the natural world.

Throughout her career, Hannah has worked at Walt Disney World as a Cast Trainer and Kilimanjaro Safaris Driver, served as Lead Educator and Events Manager at the Museum of Osteology, and worked as a Naturalist and Events Manager for the Bolingbrook Park District. She currently works as a honey monger and assistant beekeeper with Illinois Bee Rescue, alongside her role as a substitute and enrichment instructor at Headwaters Academy.

Hannah's teaching experience spans more than just traditional classrooms. She has worked with learners from preschool through college, as well as multigenerational groups, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. Her approach centers on making scientific concepts accessible, engaging, and relatable through hands-on experiences and outdoor exploration. She especially loves helping learners notice the details of their surroundings, ask questions, and discover the stories that nature has to tell.

Specializing in natural sciences interpretation, Hannah enjoys teaching outdoor skills such as hiking, canoeing, archery, and wildlife observation. She believes some of the most meaningful learning happens when children are given the opportunity to explore, get curious, and experience something new firsthand.

Outside of Headwaters, Hannah spends much of her time caring for her small but diverse collection of animals, including two cats, three toads, a lizard, a newt, and several insect colonies. She also enjoys hiking, crafting, collecting natural materials for educational projects, and reading scientific articles. She has a particular soft spot for often-misunderstood wildlife, including opossums, vultures, coyotes, spiders, and stinging pollinators.

Hannah is passionate about cultivating curiosity, encouraging environmental stewardship, and helping learners of all ages find wonder in the natural world.