Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Science Advisor at USDA Foreign Agricultural Service working to maintain and expand market access for U.S. agricultural exports. 5 years work experience at EPA, including 2 as Special Assistant in the Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery. Returned Peace Corps Volunteer 2016 – 2018. Received master's degree from Johns Hopkins University and dual bachelors degree from University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery
Collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture (Aquaculture Unit), Cooperatives Department, and Ministry of Rural Development to lay the foundation for an Agricultural Cooperative in Carmelita Village. Prepared a business plan, established pro term committees, facilitated meetings, surveyed land and natural resources, and identified markets. Used the Belizean Kriol and Spanish languages and kept village dynamics and capabilities in mind. Project included 5 women and 8 men, many of whom have never worked together. Taught Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) in the village primary school for over 200 school children aged 3-14. Trained teachers new methods of delivering HFLE content. Topics included food and nutrition, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, financial literacy, personal development, and protection from harm. Assisted Standard 6 Students in applying for local scholarships for high school. Provided Technical support to Community Health Worker in the areas of nutrition and non-communicable diseases. Assisted in preparing and organizing village health fairs. Coordinated Incaparina cooking sessions using local dishes and common foods. Facilitated English classes for eight adults three times a week for a period of one year. Topics included grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, and speaking exercises.