Erin Hughes has cultivated a life-long love and compassion for wildlife and wildspaces. In her academic career, this translated to several degrees in Biology, Ecology, and Management. While learning about the science and economy of conservation, she volunteered at local wildlife refuges and national parks. She also traveled and looked into the different approaches that other cultures have to sustainability. She moved to North Carolina in late 2023, just in time to accept a position as an Americorps Project Conserve Member. She looks forward to the opportunity to grow and leverage her skills for the betterment of local communities and ecosystems.