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Kevin Heller
Middlebury Institute of International Studies | Middlebury College
ContributorGrowing up on twelve acres in rural western Pennsylvania, my family was just a few houses away, and in the summer, it was almost impossible to see the neighbor's house through the thick canopy. I distinctly remember, every morning, waking up to find our yard had transformed into a golden sea of dandelions overnight. My mother often took us into the woods to explore and experience nature's wonders. I remember she indulged us by allowing us to build an earthen dam near a natural spring to create a haven for the frogs and salamanders that called the forest home. Such moments imbued my life with adventure, humility, and a deep understanding of our interconnectedness with nature.
These formative experiences have undeniably shaped my path to where I stand today: a graduate student at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, immersed in the Environmental Policy and Management Program, with my focus areas being Arctic and Latin American conservation, community action, and governance, reflect a commitment to the lessons learned in those woods.
My upbringing has cultivated a service-driven ethos within me, dedicated to building relationships, stewarding the environment, collaborating, educating, and engaging in cultural exchange. Through these avenues, we can unlock our collective potential and embrace the 21st century with open arms, ready to face its challenges together.
My path, from the wooded landscapes of Pennsylvania to the global stage of environmental policy and community action, reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of connection—between people, communities, and the environment. Let's explore how we can collaborate to build a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious future for all.
