Blue Ridge Outdoor Education Center staff are college graduates or interns. Instructors are trained and experienced in environmental education topics such as geology, biology, and forestry as well as outdoor education activities such as team building and high ropes and adventure programs like rock climbing. Interested in joining next season's staff? Learn more here.

Bailey,
Assistant Director

Bailey was born and raised in Atlanta, GA and graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology, Behavior, & Evolution in 2023. Her interest in ecology began at age 4 by saving worms off of the sidewalk specifically because her mom told her not to.

Since then Bailey has studied and worked in California, Scotland, Chile, Oregon, and Virginia and is now thrilled to be back at BROEC for another season.

Bailey’s other interests include crafting, long walks, competing with her sister to see who can read more books in a year, and being a staunch advocate for the oxford comma.

Madeline,
Environmental Educator

Hi, I’m Madeline. Although I grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the outdoors. From a young age, my mom ensured that environmental education was part of our everyday lives whether we were camping under the stars, exploring science museums across Georgia, or watching PBS Kids shows like Wild Kratts. My goal is to inspire future generations to become environmental stewards, equipped with awareness, curiosity, and the tools to take meaningful action. I earned my BSA in Agricultural Communications at the University of Georgia along with Certificates in Environmental Education and Sustainability. Go Dawgs! During my time at UGA, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Hawai‘i, New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji, where I explored how economic, social, and environmental factors shape decision-making and long-term impact. My favorite way to spend time outdoors is kayaking, camping, practicing photography, or relaxing in my hammock. 

Anna,
Environmental Educator

Hi everyone! My name is Anna Yobp and I am from Canton, GA. I graduated from UGA in 2024 with a degree in Social Entrepreneurship along with a certificate in Sustainability. Since then I have worked as an Environmental Educator on Tybee Island, GA, and Fairbanks, AK! I am excited to be back in the southeast to teach about the ecosystem I grew up loving. In my free time, I love to read, go on walks, go to concerts, and spend time with friends and family. I can’t wait for this Spring here at Blue Ridge and to meet everyone!

Connor,
Environmental Educator

Connor is originally from Chicago, Illinois. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, as well as a certificate in Renewable and Sustainable Energy from the University of Colorado Boulder. She has worked in environmental education programs in Illinois, West Virginia, California, and Georgia. This is her second season at Blue Ridge Outdoor Education Center. Connor enjoys hiking, traveling, listening to podcasts, and playing board games. She is excited to be part of the BROEC team and share her passion for nature and exploring with learners of all ages.

Abby,
Environmental Educator

Hey Y’all! My name is Abby Bonker and I’m from Fort Mill, SC. I graduated from Clemson University in 2024 with a Bachelors of Science in Environmental and Natural Resources, and a minor in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology. I have worked with both Georgia and South Carolina DNR doing freshwater fisheries work, and I love spending time outdoors, especially on the water! Some of my hobbies include fly fishing, hiking, camping, kayaking, baking, and seeing live music! I grew up going to summer camp and being an outdoorsy kid, so I am thrilled to be on the Blue Ridge team and getting to show people all the wonderful things nature has to offer!

Anna,
Program Director

Anna was born and raised in Knoxville, TN and graduated from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga with a degree in Outdoor Recreation. After working at a summer camp in East Tennessee she realized that camp was her passion. Anna has been working at Blue Ridge Outdoor Education Center and Camp Mikell since 2016, starting as an Educator and working her way up to Program Director. Anna enjoys spending time at the lake with her dog, Willie, spending time in the woods, and cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers.