Hello! I’m Alex Zinck, and I’m so excited to be the AmeriCorps Environmental Educator with the Nisqually River Education Project for the 2023-2024 academic year. In June of this year, I graduated from The Evergreen State College with my Bachelor of Science degree. My undergraduate studies primarily involved interdisciplinary learning about ecosystem ecology, conservation biology, and equitable access to environmental resources. I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, and I’m passionate about contributing to the continued stewardship of the region’s unique ecosystems. I believe that environmental education for K-12 students is a critical part of comprehensive environmental management. Also, outdoor experiences for students are often invaluable opportunities for social and emotional development.
During my final year at The Evergreen State College, I took part in an internship that combined my interests in science and education with Thurston Conservation District’s South Sound GREEN program. Through the internship, I learned about potential careers in environmental education and discovered the Nisqually River Education Project. Prior to becoming an AmeriCorps Member, I spent the spring and summer as a research technician at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR. There, I assisted in research involving ocean acidification, toxicology, and oyster aquaculture. I have always been interested in marine ecology and fisheries, and my time at the Hatfield Marine Science Center gave me the chance to gain valuable lab experience in those areas of science.
As an AmeriCorps Member this year, I’m looking forward to facilitating programming that fosters excitement about science in youth and promotes diversity and inclusion in scientific education. I’m grateful to be part of the Nisqually Watershed community through the Nisqually River Education Project team!
Feel free to contact me with any questions at alex@nisquallyriver.org
