Terry Evans, Branch Manager at Washington Park UEC says, “Camoya’s hard work, commitment, and leadership throughout her time here have really impacted the Center, staff, and other Outdoor Leaders. We have seen Camoya blossom from a 12-year-old that wanted to just hang out at the Center to a teenager eager to learn and have new experiences that included college. Camoya has been an inspiration to everyone that she comes in contact with.”

Being surrounded and supported by the UEC High School Outdoor Leader program, Camoya noted, “It’s nice to have that experience, because working there they were constantly pushing you out of your comfort zone. You learn a lot and you learn about yourself and your community. I think that’s one of the main reasons why I just loved being there.”

Now a freshman at UW-LaCrosse, Camoya has found her first year as a biology major on the pre-veterinarian track to be challenging and fun at the same time. When Ken Leinbach, UEC Executive Director, recently spoke at UW-L Camoya was glad to see him. “I didn’t realize the UEC had such an impact on my campus.”

Camoya’s story is just one of many journeys that you have been a part of through your support of the Urban Ecology Center. Thank you for the amazing work you make possible in our community!