National Team

Together we maintain our partnerships, promote outreach to our local and global communities, develop curriculum, craft grant proposals, and provide support for our chapter teams and instructors.

Kendall is passionate about inspiring and igniting the next generation of environmental problem solvers and nature lovers. Her first formal introduction to being an environmental educator was through the Sprout Up chapter at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she volunteered as a classroom lead instructor and worked on the education team to refresh the chapter’s curriculum. Since graduating from UCSB in 2019 with a degree in Environmental Studies and a minor in Elementary Math and Science Education, Kendall has spent the last several years mentoring college students and developing environmental education programs for the non-profit organizations Acterra and Gravity Water. She loves exploring new trails and outdoor spaces around the Bay Area, finding secondhand treasures at thrift stores, and tending to her houseplant and succulent collection.

Katarina Pittis graduated in 2018 from New York University with a major in Film and Television. They first joined Sprout Up in 2016 as an instructor and taught in multiple classrooms. She is most passionate about making documentaries because she loves to combine her love for education and filmmaking. Often their films have an environmental theme that center around water issues. She loves hiking on her free time, and spending quality time with her cats.

Hi friends I'm Peyton and am a third year Environmental Studies and Geography double major! As the co-chapter director, I couldn't be more excited for the opportunity to lead our dedicated, bubbly, and passionate volunteers here in Santa Barbara. I hope to continue expanding our chapter and get as many UCSB students interested as possible! Through Sprout Up, I have learned that one day I want to start my own business creating environmental children's books :)

Amanda Liu is a rising 3rd year student at UC San Diego, studying Environmental Systems and Urban Planning. Her passion for the environment and sustainability was sparked in elementary school after watching a Bill Nye video on melting polar ice caps during science class. Today, Amanda is dedicated to educating the youth about climate change while inspiring hope for a sustainable future. On days to relax, she enjoys playing piano, taking nature walks, and discovering new restaurants.

Hi! My name is Leah and I am a third year double majoring in Education, Democracy, and Justice and Psychology at UCSC. I have always had a passion for teaching and I joined Sprout Up because I love advocating for environmental justice and believe in impacting young generations. In my free time, I love to get outdoors and explore, do anything crafty, and hang out with friends.

Hi! I'm Lilly, and I'm a junior at NYU, majoring in Environmental Studies. I joined Sprout Up because I love working with kids and teaching them the importance of protecting nature and our environment. In New York City, I enjoy exploring parks and art museums, and at home in Southern California, I spend my time at the beach.

Maia Opazo is a junior at NYU studying Environmental Studies with a passion for advancing environmental justice through youth engagement and community-based solutions. She joined Sprout Up as an instructor in Spring 2024. She loves printmaking and long walks!

Anna is an incoming second year at UC San Diego studying Cognitive Science. She is passionate about environmental advocacy and believes that education is the foundation for a more sustainable future. She loves working with kids and fostering enthusiasm for nature in the next generation. Anna also loves urban hikes, her local library, and the arts.