Sonya holds a degree in Neuroscience and Anthropology from Bryn Mawr College. From Ireland, her academic focus in college was on international student support and adolescent development, with an emphasis on the impact of adverse experiences on the developing brain. Sonya has since earned a micro-certification in Humane Education from the Institute of Humane Education, drawing connections between human rights, animal protection, and environmental sustainability. She is also a recent graduate of the Climate Reality Project’s Leadership Corp, and was trained as a Campaign Leader. Last year at IMS, Sonya developed the seventh grade Sustainability Science curriculum (previously Earth and Space Science). The curriculum combines scientific methods with outdoor education and diverse cultural viewpoints, aiming to broaden students’ perspectives and understanding of the world around them; deepen their connection to nature; and foster a sense of Earth stewardship. Outside of the classroom, Sonya also acts as a dorm parent, swim coach, and after-school program leader, and is pursuing an independent research project into the neural effects of outdoor education on the developing brain. Sonya is also pursuing further education in Global Learning to enhance her educational practices.