Laura is an environmental scientist, educator and Expedition Leader whose work bridges field research with immersive outdoor education. Born in Alaska, she developed an early connection to the natural world through snowy adventures, berry picking and time spent outdoors. After her family relocated to Pennsylvania, she continued to build this foundation through summers at camp, where her interest in environmental learning and leadership took shape.

Laura holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and environmental education from Messiah College and earned a master’s degree in environmental science from Oregon State University. Her graduate research examined the ecological role of sea otters and their influence on razor clam populations in Cook Inlet, Alaska, deepening her understanding of predator–prey dynamics and nearshore marine ecosystems.

Professionally, Laura has worked as a naturalist, teacher, camp director and guide. She has led backpacking, canoeing and climbing trips for both youth and adults and taught outdoor education in Pennsylvania, Alaska and California. Her career has also taken her abroad, where she helped develop an outdoor education program in India and studied ecosystems while traveling in England, Africa, Belize, New Zealand, Australia and Antarctica.

Now based once again in Alaska, Laura is proud to guide in her home state. As a Photo Expedition Leader for Nat Hab, she encourages travelers to slow down, observe closely and engage thoughtfully with Alaska’s wildlife and landscapes, blending science, exploration and visual storytelling to foster curiosity, respect and stewardship.