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.

Alejandra grew up in Sonoma County, California, surrounded by the coast, redwoods, and large open spaces that inspired her love of nature. Her interest in marine ecosystems led her to pursue a degree in Marine Biology at UC San Diego. Since graduating, she has gained experience in microbiology, marine conservation research, and climate action. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to environmental education and public engagement, whether connecting diverse audiences to marine research and conservation or serving as a volunteer docent at the California Academy of Sciences. She is passionate about creating accessible, inclusive opportunities for all people to learn and care for the environment. In her free time, she enjoys spending her time outdoors, practicing yoga, and casual bird watching.

Hello all! My name is Sofia Martinez and I am a rising junior studying Public Policy and Urban Studies! This coming year I'll be working as the Program Manager for my school's Sprout Up Chapter. I'm passionate about making communities more affordable, sustainable and equitable for all and I hope to pursue a career in public service! Additionally, I love working with kids and teaching them about the environment around them. In my free time, I like to go hiking, explore new places, try out coffee spots and spend time with friends and family!

Adriana Graves Vargas is a junior at Sac State studying communication and environmental studies. She enjoys working with kids and is especially interested in climate change policy and advocacy. In her free time, she loves hiking, camping, and drawing.

Hi Sprouts! My name is Jadyn Tunnell, and it's my second year instructing for Sprout Up and first year on board. Sprout Up has brought me so many memories, from taking students through their first seeds and sprouts lesson to helping them build their own community gardens, the joy is immeasurable. This year we're working with more classrooms and organizations than ever, and UCSD is piloting the first Spanish-speaking lessons! I can't wait to see what this year holds and how much knowledge we can acquire.

Elena is a third year Environmental Management and Protection major. She joined Sproutup to inspire kids to care about the environment and to be able to spend time with kids. She loves spending time outdoors by swimming, biking, skiing, and taking nature walks.

Netra (she/her) is a current undergraduate student at New York University pursuing an Individualized Degree in Public Policy, Urban Regeneration, and Sustainable Business. She joined Sprout Up as a lead instructor in Spring 2026 because she is incredibly passionate about raising the next generations of environmental stewards to teach them the importance of caring for our only planet. Outside of school, she is a community activist, enjoys cooking and reading, and exploring NYC!

My name is Quinny, and I'm a sophomore education major. I am passionate about the environment, and love sprout up for inspiring kids to care for the environment. I love the outdoors and in my free time like to be outside and eat yummy food around the city!

Jess is a junior at NYU studying Environmental Studies and Public Policy, with a minor in Studio Art. She loves painting, sketching outdoors, and doing all kinds of arts and crafts. Jess joined Sprout Up as an instructor in 2026 and has enjoyed the experiences and opportunities it has provided. She is passionate about environmental sustainability and loves sharing that enthusiasm with young students. Through teaching, she hopes to inspire kids to learn about the world around them and create positive change.

My name is Ava, and I am a sophomore at UC Santa Barbara studying Environmental Studies and Communications. This is my second year as an instructor for Sprout Up, and I am excited to serve as the Co-Community Manager for my chapter this upcoming school year! Sprout Up has been the highlight of my college experience thus far, and has fueled my passion for communicating about sustainability. I am interested in pursuing a career in science communication and/or corporate sustainability. In my free time, I love being outdoors, going to hot yoga, reading, and working on creative projects.