Lisa Travis, Class of 2018
Katie Potter, presenting “The Power of Paleontology”
Katie is currently employed at the Holifield Science and Learning Center, where she specializes in animal care. Prior to the Covid lockdown, she dedicated several years to education at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, as well as volunteering at the Dallas Zoo’s nature exchange. Katie’s passion lies in paleontology; nothing captivates her more than exploring ancient ecosystems and understanding the powerful forces that have shaped them.
Her enthusiasm extends to the world of insects, as she maintains a soft spot for bugs of all kinds. Notably, she has cared for Florida Ivory millipedes and various types of velvet ants. When not exploring the outdoors, Katie channels her creativity into writing fiction tailored for teenagers, weaving in natural history themes that reflect her deep appreciation for the world around us.
Imelda Everett, presenting “Medicinal Plants of Texas
Imelda, a dedicated wife and mother, has proudly called North Texas home for the past decade. She, along with her family, currently resides in Celina, where she actively volunteers with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. In this role, she is committed to consciously developing future parkland and also serves as a board member for Keep Celina Beautiful. Imelda’s deep passion lies in conservation, and she actively works towards reconnecting people to the land.
Imelda has studied and practices Bioregional Herbalism and Traditional Healing. Through her expertise, she aspires to assist others in deepening their connection with the natural world around them. Through her commitment to community engagement and ecological well-being, she is dedicated to fostering a harmonious relationship between people and the environment.
Christina Anderson, presenting “Something to CROW About”
Christina holds a BA in zoology and an MD, and she practiced rural family medicine for 15 years in New Hampshire. With a birding journey spanning 45 years, her “spark birds” were nesting cardinals and the blue jay engaged in a spirited battle in the pin oak outside her bedroom window in upstate New York. She now resides in McKinney, where her backyard proudly boasts certification as a Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation.
Through a lifetime of experiences and a zoology degree, her favored aspect of wildlife watching centers on behavior studies. Her diverse interests encompass organic indoor and outdoor gardening, as well as botany. At the age of 48, she taught herself to cook and bake. An avid reader, she possesses an extensive library of both adult and children’s books. She harbors a profound, spiritual connection to Mother Earth and is a climate activist. She staunchly believes in the significance of lifelong learning. She is the proud mother of three young adult daughters and is the caretaker of numerous rescue cats, who enthusiastically join her in the pursuit of birdwatching.
Linda Barnes, presenting “Fritillary Butterflies: How I Found Joy in the Midst of Grief”
Linda is a lifelong Texan, growing up and still residing in Garland. She and her husband recently retired and will be celebrating 40 years of marriage in January. She is a mother of two daughters and granny to 6 grandchildren (#7 on the way). Linda grew up in what was once the “country”. The love of nature was instilled in her while roaming and exploring the land surrounding her. Spending time outside is her happy place. She loves camping, hiking, birding and all things related to nature. Photography is her favorite hobby, and photographing nature is her true passion. Linda seeks out the beauty and wonder in all things, finding the mystical and magical often obscure and overlooked; and always learning something new and amazing. She is still trying to figure out this new season of her life with so many opportunities, while looking for the joy in the everyday.
Ren Dowhaniuk, presenting “Highlights of the 2023 Training Experience”
Canadian born and bred, Ren moved to the United States with her husband and two sons in 1998. Having lived in both Texas and Louisiana, she has experienced various aspects of American life. Her oldest son now resides in Fort Collins with his wife and her grandson, while her youngest son and his wife have made their home in Uganda, Africa.
Ren runs her own photography business specializing in capturing moments with people and their pets. Her lifelong passion for animals extends far beyond her photography work. She dedicates most of her Texas Master Naturalist hours to animal care at North Texas Wildlife Center and Holifield Science Center.
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