Our Tribe’s Fortune – Ruby: 4,000 Hours

Lisa Travis, Class of 2018 – 2022-2024 New Class Director

What inspired you to become a Master Naturalist?

When I first heard about the program, I was mainly interested in the education part, and didn’t know too much about the volunteering aspect. We attended an open house with the NTMN chapter, and I thought several of the volunteering projects sounded interesting. We started attending meetings at the Blackland Prairie Chapter, and it seemed like they were a great group of people who were doing something to make a difference, and I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

On what type of projects do you typically spend your service hours, or are they varied?

I do some restoration work at various places, but my main interest is the education aspect; from the training classes to trail guiding. I love working with the incoming classes each year, and find it really rewarding. It’s so energizing and exciting to work with new Master Naturalists. I also love using iNaturalist as a learning and teaching tool.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background, and perhaps what you like to do in your spare time?

I was a teacher (elementary, kindergarten, and pre-school) While dealing with adult learners is different in many ways, there are surprisingly many things that carry over! I have three children (all grown) and three grandchildren. In my spare time, I like to read, hike, crochet, and spend time with the grandkids.

Is there one thing that you’d like to tell others who are thinking of becoming a Master Naturalist or perhaps current members who might need a little bit of inspiration?

My advice would be to try lots of volunteer activities, and find something you’re passionate about. I think that we have something for everyone, whether you prefer being outdoors or at a desk, working alone or with others, etc. If you haven’t found volunteer work you love doing, try something else.

Volunteer Service Questionnaire – created by Andrea Ridout, Class of 2009