Jen has worked in the field of land management—actively controlling invasive plants, constructing prairies and native gardens, conducting prescribed burns, building trails, writing grants, facilitating ecological research and offering educational programming– since graduating from Calvin College with an undergraduate Biology degree in 2000.  After graduating from Calvin, Jen earned a M.S. degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from MSU.  Since 2003, she served as the Stewardship Manager for Pierce Cedar Creek Institute (Hastings, MI) and is currently employed as the Land Manager for the Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens (Grand Rapids, MI).  At Calvin University, she oversees the land management efforts of the Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens and actively mentors student employees and interns.  The best part of her job is witnessing the positive ecological impact students make well beyond the confines of the natural areas she has cared for.