Whether listening to a chorus of spring peepers in solitude or exploring the forests of our urban environment with a class of eighth graders, Stephen is continually humbled by our planet and the lessons nature teaches. Stephen grew up along the shores of Lake Erie and attended Penn State Behrend to earn a bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Evolution, & Behavior. As a Naturalist Educator, Stephen uses his enthusiasm for science and nature to activate others’ interest in the outdoors. Stephen teaches primarily middle school and high school students, providing hands-on experiences that help others see science at work in their neighborhoods. Outside of work, Stephen is typically found backpacking through wilderness areas or pedaling around Pittsburgh. Stephen plays drums in two bands, regularly attends 80s DJ nights, tends a plot in the Highland Park Community Garden, and has recently achieved his longtime aspiration of becoming a mycologist, as named the Western PA Mushroom Club. Stephen has been working for the Parks Conservancy since 2014. Favorite Quote: “Thus at every step we are reminded that we by no means rule over nature… but that we, with flesh, blood, and brain, belong to nature, and exist in its midst.” — Friedrich Engels