Christa Timmerman, MPH, is the Health and Well-being Specialist for Larimer County Office of Colorado State University Extension. She has been a health educator for over 13 years creating and leading programming related to mental health across the lifespan. She is passionate about fostering social connection and belonging through nature experiences. 

For over twenty years, educator and author, Amy Wagenfeld, Ph.D., OTR/L, SCEM, FAOTA has dedicated herself to the field of inclusive and therapeutic landscape design, research, and program development. She is driven by a fervent passion for projects that significantly enhance people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing through nature contact.

Julia Merfeld is a masters student in the Department of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. She has experience in collaborations between research and practitice, program evaluation for outdoor organizations, and getting her hands dirty in conservation work. She is interested in nature connectedness and relationships that will benefit both humans and nature.

Amy McDonnell, Ph.D., is a professor of cognitive neuroscience in the Department of Psychology at Colorado State University. Her research surrounds the influence of immersion in nature on the brain and the associated mental, physical, and cognitive health benefits.

Sue Schneider, Ph.D., is a medical anthropologist, integrative health coach, and mindfulness instructor. As an Extension Professor and State Health Specialist with Colorado State University Extension, she leads community health and wellness initiatives across Colorado. Her work focuses on advancing individual and community well-being through evidence-based approaches that integrate nature, mindfulness, and health promotion.