Trudy was raised in Ojai, where early explorations of creeks, shrublands, and oak woodlands sparked a lifelong connection to nature. These experiences fostered resilience, curiosity, and joy, shaping her belief in the transformative power of nature-based learning.

Trudy earned her B.S. in Biology in the Pacific Northwest, where she also built a decade-long career in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation, working with species ranging from marine mammals to birds of prey and other native wildlife. Through this work, she discovered a passion for education and community engagement to help foster a greater understanding and respect for our natural world.

Since 2017, Trudy has served as an educator with Ventura Wild, an education initiative of Ventura Land Trust, and in 2021 became the department head for Ventura Land Trust’s Education Initiatives. She has helped develop and expand nature-based programming across Ventura County, produced short educational films, and continues to lead efforts to grow our equity-focused programming.

Trudy has also collaborated with numerous environmental education organizations across Ventura County and presently serves as Education Director on the board of Keep the Sespe Wild. In her spare time, she enjoys climbing, birding, gardening, backpacking, and exploring the landscapes that shaped her.