2025 End of Year Recap
A Year Made Possible by Many
Thank you!
This year was not defined by a single role or place, but by a series of meaningful steps forward—learning, dreaming, creating, and building. Across projects in theme parks, education, and zoo-related work, I was fortunate to work alongside generous people who shared their guidance, collaboration, and encouragement.
Thank you to everyone who was part of this year, whether through a conversation, a project, or a moment of trust. Each month below captures a brief reflection from that shared journey.
Stepping into the opening phase of Epic Universe marked my transition from learning to contributing, working alongside teams shaping large-scale themed experiences. Thank you to everyone who welcomed me into this journey.
Experiencing alpine environments firsthand deepened my understanding of nature, climate, and outdoor experience design beyond the studio. Thank you to those who encouraged me to explore beyond familiar ground.
Supporting the planning and presentation of a beverage technology showcase offered insight into how operations, design, and innovation intersect. Thank you to the teams who trusted me to support this process.
Completing six restaurant brand books was a defining moment in translating story, design, and operations into clear systems. Thank you to the collaborators who made these outcomes possible.
Graduating from UCF marked the completion of an intensive learning phase grounded in storytelling, collaboration, and experience thinking. Thank you to the faculty and peers who shaped this foundation.
Volunteering in urban beekeeping reminded me that learning from nature begins with care, patience, and responsibility. Thank you to those who shared their knowledge so generously and guided me to work with the bees. 🐝
Publishing my first co-authored book transformed research into shared knowledge and public dialogue. Thank you to everyone who supported this work from idea to print.
Visiting more than 10 zoos in August across states strengthened my understanding of space, storytelling, and animal-centered design. Thank you to the institutions and people who inspired these observations.
The AZA Conference offered meaningful conversations across disciplines within the zoo and aquarium community. Thank you to everyone who took the time to connect and share.
Joining SEA LIFE Orlando allowed me to work directly in education and guest engagement at the exhibit level. Thank you to the team for the warm welcome and trust.
Speaking in Taiwan with Luke Carey was an opportunity to reflect, share practice, and reconnect with the community that shaped my early path. Thank you to everyone who arranged, listened and engaged.
Beginning a private zoo project from the ground up marked a pivotal shift toward independent practice—defining vision, narrative, and experience structure from the earliest stages. Thank you to everyone who trusted me with this responsibility.
