My name is Aja Edwards. I am 23 years old and from the east side of Detroit, Michigan. I'm a recent graduate of MSU with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife with a specialty in Conservation Biology. I began my love for the natural world when I was 3, falling in love with the film Finding Nemo. Growing up in Detroit, I couldn't explore my interest due to socioeconomic reasons. Ever since, I've worked to be the representation I wished I had growing up through the work of environmental education.

Hi! My name is Kelli Laube and I am a seasonal zoo educator in Grand Rapids, MI. This is my second year as a member of MAEOE, as well as my second year of being a non-formal educator. I graduated from college in 2021 with a B.S. in Environmental Health and Conservation and received my EEC-A in 2022. A couple of other fun facts about me: I am running my first ½ marathon in October with Team World Vision, my favorite animal is the opossum, and I currently jam out to Taylor Swift and Big Time Rush!

I teach biology and environmental science at an alternative high school in the Saginaw Bay region. I spend as much time as I can outside, whether it be in my backyard gardens, kayaking, camping, or hiking. When traveling, I’m often fascinated by the vast landscapes of our country. As a life-long learner, I appreciate the connectedness many disciplines can have to nature. I am passionate about sustainable practices and how we can be environmental stewards in any chapter of our lives.