I would like to say thanks to Jes, my mentor, advisor, and a major supporter throughout both my academic career and this project. Jes has been more than just a leader; she’s been a constant reminder of what it looks like to lead with empathy and purpose. Jes has this incredible ability to make climate communication feel approachable, grounded, and full of heart. Her focus on empathy, active listening, and intentional storytelling has completely shaped how I think about environmental issues and how I try to communicate them.
Jes has taught me to think holistically, communicate with compassion, and always keep people at the center of environmental work. She pushed me to grow, not just as a researcher, but as a communicator and a scholar. Because of Jes and the values instilled in me at NMU, I’m moving forward with a stronger sense of purpose and a better understanding of how to use communication to make a difference. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her guidance, and I’ll always be thankful for the time, care, and wisdom she’s shared with me.
Thank you...
To our team at Slippery Rock
A big thank you to our research partners at Slippery Rock University for being such an important part of this project. Special shoutout to Dr. Shawn Davis, Assistant Professor in the Department of Parks and Recreation, for his thoughtful guidance and collaboration
throughout this process. We’re also so grateful to Alex Witmer, Graduate Research Assistant, along with undergraduate research assistants Elena Lucas, Maya Yost, Pierce Landis, and Kelly Carbone for all the time, energy, and care they put into the research process. Their hard
work played a huge role in building the strong, detailed dataset that helped shape this project. It was an absolute privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team.
We couldn't have done it without you!
To our partners at NPS & USFWS
We’re deeply grateful to our partners at the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, whose support never wavered throughout this project. Their trust in us and the power of this work, which has meant more than we can say. Their dedication to protecting our public lands, educating visitors, and making these spaces accessible to all is truly inspiring, and it’s been an honor to contribute in support of that mission. We'd like to extend a special thank-you to Larry Perez, Communications Coordinator, and Matt Holly, Visual Information Specialist, both with the NPS Climate Change Response Program, for their insight and collaboration. To Wylie Carr, Environmental Protection Specialist with the same program, for his thoughtful perspective and support along the way. And to Natalie Sexton and Emily Gutierrez, both Social Scientists with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Fort Collins—thank you for sharing your expertise and helping us think more deeply about the impact and potential of this work. We couldn't have done it without you! We would also like to thank the wonderful rangers and volunteers who welcomed us and supported us throughout the project.
