Rachel’s journey in conservation began at an early age. ‘Romping through the woods’ alongside her father in the hills of middle Tennessee led to a life-long passion for the natural world. In college, Rachel studied geology, with a special interest in paleoecology and Spanish. She graduated in 2012 from the University of Georgia with a B.S. in Geology. 

Post graduation, Rachel explored a career in industrial minerals, and completed a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2015. Rachel’s key career roles since she began working in conservation have included Smokies/ North Carolina Regional Manager for Appalachian Trail Conservancy and Outreach Coordinator for the Appalachian Mountain Club. Rachel has also worked internationally, collaborating on the management and implementation plan for the Sendero Pacific trail system in Costa Rica. Additionally, Rachel attained a graduate degree in Educational Studies in 2022.

With more than 4,700 hiking miles logged, Rachel brings an authentic and comprehensive approach to her stewardship efforts. As Somerset Woods Trustees’ first Stewardship Coordinator, Rachel is looking forward to creating opportunities that will empower communities to become more active stewards of their environment. 

When Rachel is not outdoors, she is likely spending the day with her husband and cats, Lupine and Franconia. 

Email Rachel.