Behind The Science

Chris is passionate about connecting people with nature. As Assistant Professor of Parks, Tourism, and Recreation Ecology, he works in a joint-position that serves University of Idaho's College of Natural Resources and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. Prior to moving to Idaho, he held in a similar faculty role at Old Dominion University. Chris received his PhD from University of Utah, MS from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and BA from Colby College. In between degrees, he coordinated outdoor experiential education for Loyola University Chicago, instructed field science at Teton Science Schools, and worked in numerous other environmental education and outdoor industry roles. Chris is a board member of the Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals and an associate editor for Leisure Sciences and the Journal of Experiential Education. In his free time, he shares his love of rafting, skiing, the Boston Red Sox, and South Asian cuisine with his two sons and partner.

Hailing from a little country in Southeast Asia, I I bring a unique perspective from a land that teems with life: the vibrant tapestry of Bangladesh, I have two M.S. degrees in Environmental Science and Climate Change. Prior to receiving my education, I taught at a university in Bangladesh. While at U.I., I aim to explore recreationalist's behavior in concert with air pollution, specifically during the wildfire season in the Intermountain West.

When not immersed in academic pursuits, I find myself lost in the world of words, the realm of gardening, and photography.

Anna is a first-year graduate student pursing a Master of Science in Natural Resources. During her undergraduate studies,  Anna worked with Dr. Zajchowski on air quality and social media research in the National Capital Area, and held a position as a National Park Service Park Guide for two summers at Indiana Dunes National Park. Her graduate research will entail working with Idaho State Parks to facilitate the process of developing interpretative themes for a variety of park units. 

Born and raised in the southeast, my admiration for the natural world dates back to my childhood: exploring tide pools on the Gulf Coast, identifying plants in the Appalachian foothills, and kayaking the marshy channels of the Chesapeake. As I got older, my love language in acts of service began to shine through my career aspirations as I picked up a myriad of volunteer positions and job opportunities within environmental nonprofit organizations, a sustainability certificate in undergrad, and finally, a masters degree in environmental science. My research interests and career goals pertain to community well-being, environmental advocacy, and sustainability. Beyond graduate school, you can find me on a trail run, at the park with my dogs, or planning my next adventure. 

Jacqueline Snow, originally from Wisconsin, transitioned from a successful four-year career in marketing in Seattle to pursue her M.S. in Environmental Science. Her passion for the outdoors—evident through her extensive experiences camping, fishing, and hiking—has seamlessly merged with her communication expertise. At the University of Idaho, Jacqueline collaborates with Dr. Zajchowski and Dr. Karl on visitor use management at Rinker Rock Creek Ranch. Her work further includes a comprehensive literature review on recreational impacts to rangelands and her thesis focuses on leveraging AI to develop interpretive signage aimed at enhancing Palouse Prairie conservation.

Brey is a senior at the University of Idaho, completing a degree in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism Management. His academic journey has shaped his passion for outdoor experiences and sparked an interest in exploring how place and culture influence personal values related to recreation. As Brey transitions into graduate school next year, he is eager to deepen his research in recreational studies, particularly in how people perceive and engage with outdoor environments. In addition to his academic pursuits, Brey enjoys whitewater rafting and cooking, which keep him both adventurous and creative. Looking ahead, Brey is excited to contribute to the field of recreation through meaningful research and continued exploration of human-nature interactions.

Coming from the rich and diverse landscapes of Colombia, I bring with me a deep passion for understanding and preserving our natural world. I have focused my studies on the impact of tourism in Antarctica, a region where the balance between human activity and environmental conservation is critical. My fascination with drones and remote sensing technologies drives my research, enabling me to explore and monitor remote and sensitive ecosystems effectively.

When I’m not engaged in my academic work, I find joy in outdoor activities, capturing the beauty of nature through photography, and immersing myself in music.