Leslie’s family moved to Ojai when she was 9 years old, to live closer to relatives who already called the valley home. As an avid fan of all things outdoors, Ojai provided the ideal playground for Leslie, who spent countless hours exploring its many arroyos, canyons, and mountains. Family vacations spent camping up the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington solidified Leslie‘s deep love for the environment. She then attended the University of California, Berkeley to obtain a BA degree in Psychology. As an undergraduate, Leslie discovered an abiding passion for studying attachment theory, under some of the most preeminent names in the field. In her professional career, Leslie has worked in many different educational contexts, from one-on-one therapy to preschool classrooms.  Most recently, she worked as a specialist on a ropes course and as an outdoor guide for youth on multi-day camping trips. In her free time, Leslie cultivates a regular yoga practice, enjoys creating art in multiple different mediums (although collage is her favorite!), and is almost always planning for her next hike or backpacking trip.

Joining Ventura Wild represents the culmination of Leslie’s lifelong interest in nature and education. She is overjoyed at the prospect of continuing to educate in the outdoors for many years to come!