Carrie is a California native earning her bachelor of science degree in Zoology from Humboldt State University. She earned her master of science degree in Interdisciplinary Ecology with a concentration in Anthropology and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Ecology with a concentration in Zoology from the University of Florida. She has completed certificates in Environmental Education and Communication and Tropical Conservation and Development.

Her academic background had her traveling worldwide (she has been to 32 countries), where she studied various primates, worked with local communities, and taught college students. She moved to Ashland, OR in 2021 to be the Dean of Students at Southern Oregon University and was promoted to Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students in 2023. Carrie joined the Board in November of 2023. She and her family have engaged with Willow-Witt Ranch through hiking with the goats, running in the Turtle Trot, and having her daughter participate in the summer education programs. Being able to support The Crest and help more people experience the magic at the ranch is important to her

Carrie enjoys spending quality time with her family and pets (2 cats, 1 dog, and 1 Rex Rabbit), cooking, dancing, and watching RuPaul’s Drag Race. Little known tidbit: she loves to participate in and organize taste tests and/or “name food item” challenges.