I look forward to getting to know each of you so please excuse the impersonal blog post, but I had promised a little information on who I am and what you can expect from me in the near future.
The most important thing you should know is that I am passionate about horticulture and couldn’t be happier to be working with the Master Gardeners. For me, sparking interest in outdoor environments is a way I can influence lives, communities and the environment. To be a part of an organization 5500 people strong and working together to inspire horticultural interest through education is truly thrilling.
My Bachelors is in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Plant Biology (2004, UC Davis) and my Masters is in Environmental Horticulture (2007, UC Davis). I’ve continued my learning with classes through the American Management Association and completed a two year leadership program with the CA Agricultural Leadership Foundation in 2011.
Since 2007 I have worked for the CA Center for Urban Horticulture and the UC Davis Arboretum on projects ranging from the UC Davis Arboretum All-Stars to horticultural trainings/workshops.
In the near future, I will work closely with Aubrey in her new role as Statewide Training Coordinator as we develop the Volunteer Management Institute (October 16-17, 2013) and endeavor to create online training courses. A new program representative will be hired this summer and he/she will take over responsibilities for the website and VMS.
I’m particularly looking forward to August - October when I’ll travel to each county and we can get to know each other better. In addition, I hope to collect information about programs, outreach activities, and hear any needs you have from the statewide office. I genuinely look forward to our future together as the UCCE Master Gardeners!
Happy 4th of July!
Missy