I (Emily) have always had a passion for exotic animals with a specialty in reptiles and birds, with my goal being to learn as much about them as possible. However, no matter how much you study, research, and work with exotic animals, there is always more to learn! I feel that the more people know about reptiles, the better appreciation they have for them. Someday, I hope to live in a world where the majority of people enjoy snakes rather than loathe them. My programs aim to open the eyes of the youth (and other generations) so that they grow up respecting reptiles, leading to wildlife preservation in the future.

I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Fisheries & Wildlife. I then became an Interpretive Naturalist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, where I found my love for wildlife education. I have spent hundreds of hours developing and conducting educational programs about wildlife to all age groups and backgrounds. I am an active member of the Minnesota Herpetological Society (MHS), where I regularly volunteer at hands-on activities to spread knowledge of reptiles as pets. I am also a past Director of the Minnesota Companion Bird Association (MCBA), as well as certified Aviculturist through the American Federation of Aviculture. Now when I return to the universities, I get to be in front of the teaching board rather than behind a desk! I have taught pre-vet students about Companion Animals at the University of Wisconsin: River Falls and the University of Minnesota.