The Team

Meet the Team

Dr. Rebecca Calisi Rodríguez
Director of the Green Care Lab
(she/her/ella)

Associate Professor, Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences

Dr. Calisi Rodríguez has dedicated decades to unraveling the intricate effects of stress on animal biology. Her lab’s research has yielded groundbreaking findings touching on a wide spectrum of stress-related consequences, encompassing behavioral, reproductive, genomic, and proteomic dimensions. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new layers of stress to society, compounding a pre-existing mental health epidemic. It was then that Dr. Calisi Rodríguez decided to shift her research program’s focus from understanding how stress can harm the body to exploring how individuals can recover and heal from stress. In 2022, she created The Green Care Lab to leverage her expertise in animal behavior, stress physiology, and behavioral neuroendocrinology to explore the science behind recovery and healing processes. Situated at Pine Trails Ranch, a 22-acre animal sanctuary in West Davis, the lab embodies a holistic “One Health” framework, investigating the interconnected health of the public, animals, nature, and their shared environment
"I grew up in Texas, surrounded by cattle and horses, living for the summers I would get to spend at my family's ranch on the Texas-Mexico border. In the tough times I've experienced over the last few years, especially during the pandemic, I once again was able to bear witness to the healing effect of horses, and ranch work in general. What's more, so have my children! Upon seeing how human-horse interactions continue to profoundly and positively impact the ability of so many to overcome a multitude of challenges, the animal behaviorist and stress biologist in me went down a rabbit hole to eventually discover the emerging field of “Green Care” research. Fascinated and inspired, I am excited to collaborate with researchers at UC Davis' #1 ranked veterinary program, including our Center for Equine Health, as well as our Office for Public Scholarship and Engagement, to extend a significant portion of my research program offsite to a 22 acre ranch in west Davis - Pine Trails Ranch."

Alyssa Contreras
Social Media Innovator
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Sustainable Environmental Design, Environmental Policy, and Communications

Alyssa has been gaining research and hands-on experience in science communication. Her work centers on disseminating scientifically-validated knowledge behind the therapeutic practices centered around nature and animals. She develops content such as educational videos and infographics and assists with the design and execution of all social media strategies and campaigns for the Green Care Lab. Her desire to craft compelling narratives, push strong social media campaigns, and foster strong relationships has allowed her to thrive in this role and further push the boundaries of how social media can increase the understanding of complex concepts.

"As a first-generation college student, studying something that I knew would keep me motivated to work was always a priority. Finding myself interested in both videography and environmental science at high school age, I found a wonderful intersection when it came to pursuing a degree in Sustainable Environmental Design as it continued to allow me to practice my critical thinking skills and creativity, which was something I deeply enjoyed about each discipline. Finding inspiration from various mentors, I began to experiment within the field of marketing, bringing a breadth of knowledge from the film industry and environmental studies. I immediately found it to be something I continued to push myself to work hard in. Being part of the Green Care Lab is one of many ways I continue to develop these skills while also learning more from my peers and their disciplines."

Alexis Tappe
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

Alexis contributes to initiatives at Green Care Lab through various aspects of animal care. Collaborating with fellow lab members, she participates as an integral member of a cohesive team dedicated to ensuring methodical and comprehensive attention to every aspect of animal welfare.

"I have always loved all animals and I’ve known that I’d want to work with them ever since I was a young girl. Studying at UC Davis and working here at the Green Care Lab, I am able to pursue those connections with animals that I deeply care about. I am eager to learn more about animal behavior, animal communication, and undergraduate research as well. I hope to learn as much as possible from my peers and apply my knowledge to my future research and career as a veterinarian!"

Anyen Grande
Garden Guardian
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Anyen actively contributes to the maintenance of our ranch gardens. As a member of the garden team, Anyen engages in research aimed at the development of therapeutic green spaces.

"I am a SoCal native and I first developed an interest in how one’s surroundings affect wellbeing while working with the National Park Service. I am interested in learning more about the natural aspect of my major by working with plants. I work in the different gardens at the Green Care Lab and I am constantly learning about these environments, which will later be used for research on Green Care."

Ava Barganier
Garden Guardian
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Plant Sciences, Horticulture specialization

Working at the Green Care Lab has truly been such a rewarding experience and helps me build upon my knowledge of garden and plant care. I spend my days weeding, pruning, watering and harvesting all the delicious herbs and vegetables from our gardens. Overall, my job is to help beautify the abundant gardens here on the ranch

Ava Jimenez
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

"Deriving from a low-income community where most of my peers felt seeking a higher education was beyond reach, I felt limited by the lack of opportunities provided. Yet, I did not let this hopelessness deter me from my passion of working with animals and my community! I have spent time volunteering at a local Humane Society that provides low cost surgeries and vaccines, which made me realize the value of community building and the role this plays in mental wellbeing. So when I came across the Green Care Lab, I was ecstatic that there was an opportunity for me to continue my passion with two topics I love: bettering human relationships & health as well as animal welfare. With an emerging interest in animal behavior, I aspire to expand my experience with behaviors in a variety of species and use this knowledge to help mitigate stressful situations for animals and humans. I am very excited to learn what it’s like to be in a research lab and what the Green Care Lab can offer in terms of welfare for all."

Eden Hamming
Animal Wellness and Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Managerial Economics

Eden has been conducting research focused on the therapeutic aspects of various gardening-related activities. Her work aims to not only support mental health but also promote nutritional awareness and education among the general public. One of her specific interests lies in exploring how Green Care Practices can play a role in reducing financial stress by empowering individuals to become more self-sufficient through food cultivation and preservation. She has been actively involved in crafting workshop proposals tailored to her research, and she consistently presents them during our lab meetings. Eden values the feedback she receives and uses it to enhance and refine her proposals.

"I grew up near rural Elk Grove, so nature and agriculture have been a constant factor throughout my life. I have extensive experience working with large animals such as cattle, sheep, and hogs, as well as smaller animals like chickens and rabbits. I have spent the past four years working with these animals and have experienced first-hand the effects that training and spending time with them can have on one’s mental health. Alongside my love for animals is a passion for plants, specifically ornamental horticulture and floriculture. The planning, designing, and execution of an ornamental project has proven to be a very therapeutic and calming process for me. Knowing the effects that working with plants and animals has on me and my emotions, I am excited to learn the psychology behind it through the research done here at Pine Trails Ranch."

Beatriz Parker
Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Environmental Science and Management

Beatriz joined the Green Care Lab with a keen interest in understanding how gardening activities could be structured to offer therapeutic benefits. She has been working to understand the utilization of natural elements for partitioning gardening plots, alongside the establishment and evaluation of different irrigation methods to identify the most efficient and cost-effective approaches for maintaining our gardens, especially during extreme weather conditions. Beatriz took the initiative to delve into the scientific aspects of large-scale composting and subsequently designed a sizable composter tailored for our agricultural gardens.

"My summer position as one of the main gardeners here at the Green Care Lab offers me a fun opportunity to engage in my favorite hobby while also nurturing the local ecosystem. In the month that I’ve been here, I have noticed a huge influx of local pollinators, such as bees, wasps, beetles, and moths, which the spiders and birds have been loving. As a kid, I helped my grandmother in her garden, and that’s where my love for the activity began. Being able to do this every day reminds me of the time I got to share with her. It’s kind of a full circle moment where gardening is therapeutic for me, and the gardens I maintain will provide a therapeutic environment for those who participate in the studies. Getting to do something that brings me joy on a large scale while knowing my work is benefiting not only the local ecology but also the mental health of my community is a gratifying feeling."

Claire Phan
Curriculum Developer
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior

"My studies at UC Davis have offered me an incredible opportunity to better cultivate my passion for the sciences and the humanities. The research behind green care piqued my interest as it uniquely lies at the intersection between these two disciplines and seeks to understand the impact that interactions with nature have on our neurobiology. I started sharing my enthusiasm for science at Bret Harte Elementary School, where I develop and present physical and mental health curriculum to my students. It is a privilege to be in an educational setting surrounded by curious minds, and I am constantly reminded of the importance of making scientific research accessible to diverse communities. I am eager to apply my prior experiences at the Green Care Lab, where I hope to gain knowledge from fellow like-minded students and professionals who have goals to further contribute to the research initiative on green care"

Claudia Avilez
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

“Ever since I was young, I’ve always had a passion for working with and helping animals. I hadn’t worked with livestock or equines before, but I had always been fascinated to one day work with them. Recently, I’ve decided that I also want to learn more about animal behavior and psychology moving forward. While at UC Davis, I have learned that it’s crucial to have a growth mindset and not be afraid to take the opportunities that are available to you, as you never know how life changing even just one experience you take can be. As I researched the lab’s mission of supporting Green Care and studying how human-animal interactions can positively impact mental health and animal welfare, I knew that this was the perfect opportunity to take; it is a perfect balance of diversifying the kinds of animals I work with while learning about the positive and therapeutic effects our outdoor companions have on our mental health. Being part of a project where I can apply my passion for working with and caring for animals furthers my determination to pursue an animal-related career in the future and to always work hard. I can’t wait to continue to learn more about the benefits of human-animal interactions on mental health and animal welfare, and to support the mission of Green Care in our community.”

Cholë Peterson
Social Media Coordinator
(they/she)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Communications and Sociology double major

“I’m a first-generation LGBTQIA+ student, who originates from a humble town from the Inland Empire in Southern California. In the lab, I capture, edit, and share captivating content on the Green Care Lab’s social platforms. When I’m not tending to my academic pursuits or working with the lab, I work as a pastry chef for a small catering company in Davis. I have been very fortunate to gain experience in many career fields! Beyond my professional endeavors, I’m a proud parent of the two cutest cats to ever exist, Fish and Venus. Joining the Green Care Lab has been an enriching journey! It has allowed me to expand my understanding of equine and farm animal welfare while fostering connections with multiple people at the lab. My mission is to make Green Care Lab’s marketing a delightful addition to your timeline. I’m excited to share our endeavors and what’s to come!"

Arly Santay
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Biology

“Ever since childhood, I have always found ways to be involved with animals, whether that was doing a catch-and-release technique with a net at the park, volunteering at Wildcare, or owning many pets over the years. As I pursue a career in veterinary medicine during college, I am always seeking opportunities to work with all sorts of animals. At the Green Care Lab, I have the opportunity to expand my knowledge of livestock behaviors, in addition to learning training and handling skills on farm animals. My favorite part of working in this lab is walking the mini ponies and donkeys, as it gives me a chance to relieve the stresses of being a first-generation college student and has been greatly beneficial for my mental health. I feel very grateful for having a place here at the Green Care Lab where I’m able to combine my passion for animal wellness with a therapeutic natural setting."

Sofia Spurgeon
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology

“I’ve loved animals since my introduction to Nat Geo Wild as a kid and knew I wanted to work in animal care when I grew up. As I’ve interned in different wildlife facilities, from rehabilitation centers to zoos, I’ve fallen even more in love with this field. The most exciting part to me is that the knowledge and possibilities are endless. That’s what drew me to Green Care Lab. The opportunities it provides particularly interested me because I wanted to expand my knowledge and expertise to include domesticated animals, especially therapy animals. I’m also excited to explore my interest in animal behavior through the work done here!"

Elysiah Boldridge
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

Elysiah is entrusted with the care and welfare of our three miniature pigs, as well as our pairs of miniature horses, donkeys, and goats. These animals hold a vital role in our research on the therapeutic advantages of human-animal interactions. Notably, Elysiah has embarked on a research project aimed at exploring existing literature on methods to manage summer fly population surges. Her objective is to contribute to the maintenance of a balanced ecosystem that benefits both our animals and our team.

"I found my passion for animals when I started High School and started to participate in Future Farmers of America, where I worked with all kinds of livestock. Working with livestock taught me so many tangible skills that I have utilized in my own home with my animals, and while working with Dr. Calisi! I had never heard of Green Care, or what that had to do with taking care of animals, but as I read more on Dr. Calisi's work, I was completely blown away. Now, working for the Green Care Lab, I have learned so much more about animal behaviors. I am thrilled to be a part of the Green Care Lab, and cannot wait to learn new ways to implement Green Care into the well-being and welfare of animals."

Joel Sandoval Valdez
Social Media Innovator and Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(he/him)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Psychology and Communications

Joel joined our team with a strong desire to enhance his science communication skills across various online platforms. As he delved into creating content that communicated the therapeutic advantages of horticulture, he discovered a newfound passion for gardening. Specifically, he became deeply interested in exploring how gardening could serve as a means to promote the mental health and overall well-being of the Latino/a/x community. Joel initiated his own project, centered around the development of a succulent garden that pays homage to his Mexican American heritage. This endeavor involved extensive research into therapeutic and culturally relevant garden design and implementation. His contributions have positioned us for future research aimed at understanding how various demographic factors influence the neurobiological, physiological, and behavioral aspects related to Green Care practices.

"I am a first-generation Latino college student. Being the child of immigrants, the importance of perseverance was taught and demonstrated to me from early on. That spirit of determination and willingness to learn despite the odds being against me is what brought me here to The Green Care Lab. I had no prior experience taking care of gardens or working the land before coming here, but what better way to learn than by getting your hands dirty? I have always had a fascination with everything relating to Mother Nature, from plants and our environment to a deep romanticism for humanity and my peers. My perspective on life has been cultivated from my cultural background, my friends, and my lived experiences, this perspective being that every issue in life has a solution and that the things we want are worth fighting for. I hope to learn as much as possible from my peers as well as share my creative optimism with them and the endeavors here at the Green Care Lab."

Max Ramirez
Animal Wellness Specialist
(he/him)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

“I’ve had a deep passion for animals for as long as I can remember. As a child, I saw my father nurture and train horses that people didn’t want anymore and give them a second chance. He taught me to learn from horses and that they would teach me about myself. He paved the road for my love for animals and in 2019 I interned at the Wild Horse and Burro Sanctuary in Shingletown, CA to learn more about wild horses and natural horsemanship. After that, I worked at a no-kill animal shelter in my hometown and later at a private small animal vet clinic. When I heard about the Green Care Lab, I felt deeply passionate about Dr. Calisi’s mission since it reminded me of the lessons my father taught me about the special connection between animals and humans. Here at the lab, I have learned so much more about these interactions that have shaped my life, and I hope to one day pave the road for someone else.”

Savannah Clemente
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science, Animal Behavior specialization

Collaborating with fellow lab members, Savannah participates as an integral member of a cohesive team dedicated to ensuring methodical and comprehensive attention to every aspect of animal welfare.

"Since animals cannot talk, I am here to be their voice. Growing up, I always felt a special connection with animals and it seems to be my calling to give back in this world. My passion for animals started way back when I was a kid, watching the famous Doctor Pol and animal-related documentaries. Now, as an Animal Science major, I get to turn that passion into a lifelong adventure. I’m learning about the proper treatment of animals to ensure they are being taken care of and handled correctly. I am also on a mission to ensure that the animals we depend on for food and other resources are treated with respect and kindness. I will be looking into the behaviors these animals display while interacting with humans so I can help educate others about their needs. With this education and my degree, I will pursue vet school to continue my education and become the best, most passionate veterinarian so I can give to the community as well as to my own pets. Unfortunately, in today's world, a lot of doctors fall out of the field due to the amount of stress, or the compassion is no longer invested. I hope to help change that by demonstrating that one can become a veterinarian no matter the obstacle and be a voice for animals in need."

Claire Short
Lab Manager
(she/her)

Photo by Jacqueline Villalobos

Lab Manager | UC Davis graduate, Spring 2022 | Major: Wildlife, Fish & Conservation Biology

Claire initially joined our team as an undergraduate student and has since continued her valuable contribution as our lab manager post-graduation. Her role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of our laboratory, including the guidance and support she provides to our undergraduate student interns. In addition to her managerial responsibilities, Claire has been actively engaged in a research project focused on investigating the impact of interactions with miniature pigs on human anxiety and depression.

"I’ve always been passionate about animals, and I first discovered my love for animal training at 12 years old when I got my Bichon puppy, who I eventually competed with nationally in Dog Agility. When I was 14, I started volunteering at Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue, where I later began clicker training the resident wildlife. I also volunteered doing photography at the Sonoma County animal shelter. When I moved from Santa Rosa to Davis, my animal activities focused more on research. I conducted a study on goldfish behavior and I worked at the UC Davis Road Ecology Center, investigating how roads affect the behavior of wildlife. At the Green Care Lab, I get to combine my interest in studying animal behavior with my passion for animal training and photography. I’m also learning more about the power of human-animal interactions, which have always played a central role in my life."

Nina Spaccarelli
Animal Wellness and Cognition Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

Nina's research primarily revolves around animal behavior, cognition, and enrichment. Her role involves identifying, evaluating, and applying the most impactful enrichment activities for our laboratory animals. A significant contribution of hers has been the development of the "Green Care Lab Enrichment Playbook," a resource that has significantly improved the overall health and welfare of our animals. In addition to her research responsibilities, Nina also actively participates in the essential daily care routines for our three miniature pigs, as well as our pairs of miniature horses, donkeys, and goats.

"I grew up in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, where our home was a haven for a diverse array of animals. Our household was more than just a residence; it was a miniature zoo that accommodated not only dogs and cats but also unique creatures like opossums, ferrets, and even ducklings. The experience of nurturing and rehabilitating these orphaned animals fostered my growing desire to work in the animal field. My upbringing sparked a strong interest in animal behavior, pushing me to uncover the motivations and intricate emotions of our beloved companions. My understanding truly blossomed during my time at UC Davis through various enlightening courses. My background with animals and my current studies have vividly shown me the profound impact of "green care." Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate a career aligned with my passion, excited to share the knowledge gained from my time here at the lab. My goal is to promote the positive psychological effects of green care."

Jacqueline Villalobos
Assistant Curriculum Developer
(she/ella)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: B.S Psychology

Jackie has been working in collaboration with Dr. Calisi-Rodríguez on the creation of college course materials. These materials serve a dual purpose: to empower students to manage college-related stress by fostering a connection with nature, and to provide students with the skills necessary for conducting scientific research. Jackie's significant contribution has played a crucial role in the research and development of the course titled "The Science of Happiness" at UC Davis.

"Adjusting to UC Davis as a transfer student presented its challenges; however, I found comfort in the transformative power of nature and community, whether by walking my puppy at nearby parks or hosting dinner parties with friends. The opportunity to work at the Green Care lab has been an incredible experience. I co-design college courses aimed at empowering students to combat college stress through the therapeutic connection with nature while teaching them how to conduct scientific research. This experience has solidified my desire to pursue grad school in the near future, where I aim to investigate interventions that impact the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges, particularly those exacerbated by health disparities."

Alumni

Top, L-R: Dalia Carbajal-Robles, Ashley Contreras, Rebecca Calisi Rodríguez, Eden Hamming, Zora Lou Hartley; Bottom L-R: April Booth, Elizabeth Shin, Nora Bahr, Claire Short, Jessie Ostrove, Tubbs

Nora Bahr
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/they)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Wildlife, Fish & Conservation Biology

Nora's research focus centered on investigating the literature on the therapeutic potential of farm animals, with a specific interest in pigs. She was also instrumental in helping us care for all of the animals of the Green Care Lab.

"I grew up in Los Angeles, which isn't exactly a city teeming with wildlife opportunities. However, I always found a way to integrate animal interaction into my life. I have worked professionally with horses at a therapeutic disabled children's horse ranch and with chimpanzees, goats, sheep, and pigs at the Los Angeles Zoo, so I have experience in both animal behavior and training across a wide range of animals. These opportunities taught me about the tangible differences that working with animals can make on a person's mental and physical health. Being around animals never fails to make me feel calm, comfortable, and safe. Learning about the concept of "Green Care" and the project that Dr. Calisi plans to focus on immediately caught my attention. This is what I want to pursue in life and I hope to one day work in animal behavior or rehabilitation. This internship will provide my colleagues and I with explanations for our own passions for animal behavior, animal care, nature, and the many therapeutic effects these things can have."

Dalia Carbajal-Robles
Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Landscape Architecture

Dalia has a keen interest in creating culturally-responsive, inviting, sustainable public spaces. She took the initiative to establish the Green Care Lab's Tending Garden, a space that offers numerous interactive opportunities for both students and community members to engage in horticultural therapy. Dalia's efforts went beyond gardening; she actively collaborated with local tribe members and conducted research to incorporate elements into the garden that pay tribute to the native Patwin tribe. This included strategic planting of medicinal yarrow and designing pathways that wind reminiscent of Putah Creek. As a result of her dedication, the Tending Garden has become a permanent and integral feature of the Green Care Lab.

"I am a first-generation Latina college student majoring in Landscape Architecture! I am interested in designing attractive, enjoyable, and sustainable public spaces. That includes gardens, playgrounds, functional public parks, and much more! One of my main goals is to travel the world, support eradicating global poverty and one day have my Landscape Architecture firm. When I heard about the Whisper Garden project at Pine Trails Ranch, I thought it would be a grand opportunity to put my design skills to the test, as well as experiencing hands-on work! I am super excited to be part of this team and I look forward to learning and growing at Pine Trails Ranch!"

Ashley Contreras
Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(any/all)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Ecology, Evolution. and Biodiversity

Ashley brings with them a rich knowledge of traditional Mexican remedies for various health issues, which includes the use of self-grown medicinal herbs to create teas and treat conditions like ear infections. Ashley delved into the literature to explore the scientific validity of properties of native plants that have been traditionally regarded as having medicinal benefits.

"I was born and raised on the Southside of Los Angeles, where I was familiar with traditional Mexican remedies to cure any sort of malfunction in our bodies, from using hierbas medicinales we grew ourselves to make tea to utilizing those same hierbas to cure an ear infection. I grew to love the beauty of nature after many years working with my father as jardineros; lawn and landscape service as one would refer to it as. I understood the importance of planting and maintaining the overall health of trees, shrubs, flowers and different types of grasses. It has led me to have a connection with the common things we see when we are not stuck indoors. A reminder to acknowledge the natural forms of healing, and avoid neglecting the fundamental elements that create us. Being a part of the Green Care Lab has allowed me to expand my knowledge, share it with a community, and conduct research that integrates further understanding about natural experiences that are found to be therapeutic."

Amelia Fletes
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Animal Science

Amelia was driven to join our lab by her aspiration to accumulate more hands-on experience with equines in preparation for her applications to veterinary programs. Her focus is primarily on our lab's four equines, and she actively engages in several aspects of their care. She has become proficient in conducting daily wellness checks and providing treatment for minor wounds, catering to both our horses and donkeys.

"Growing up disabled, being around animals has always been a therapeutic experience for me, even if I didn't realize it at the time. As such, I have found myself wanting to be surrounded by animals whether that be through horseback riding, volunteering at ranches, or even just taking my dogs out for a walk. My appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of animals has motivated me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. As a UC Davis student and an undergraduate researcher with the Green Care Lab, I would like to apply my passion and experience to understanding how green care influences communities and how it can be applied to a future in veterinary medicine."

Zora Lou Hartley
Therapeutic Garden and Animal Wellness Specialist
(they/them)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems

Zora Lou joined the Green Care Lab with a keen interest in exploring how gardens can contribute to supporting neurodiversity. Zora Lou played an essential role in advancing our gardens to facilitate various therapeutic activities. In addition to their work with the gardens, Zora Lou gained practical experience by actively participating in the care and welfare of our animals.

"When I was quite young, I moved from Switzerland to my dad’s family farm in Sonoma County. I’ve spent most of my life in Sonoma and Oakland (moving back and forth from Switzerland as well). The contrast of all my living situations made me appreciate the various experiences I had with nature. When I was living in the East Bay, I wanted to see more nature and wildlife and yearned to integrate the life I had on my farm with the life I had there. In every empty space, whether it be a sidewalk or under a freeway overpass, I see the possibly for it to be filled with plants that can give back to the community. My experience with livestock and working with my dad inspired me to keep learning about what we can do better for the planet. I look forward to having more hands-on experience and learning from all of my coworkers with their different perspectives and backgrounds."

Jessie Ostrove
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Environmental Science & Management

Jessie took the initiative to conceive, execute, and analyze an independent research project investigating the potential benefits of using equine parent-offspring dyads to improve human parent-child relationships. The preliminary data she collected played a pivotal role in advancing the lab's research goals, which seek evidence-based alternatives to traditional mental health interventions for families. Jessie presented her outstanding work as her Honors Thesis at UC Davis' annual Undergraduate Research Conference. While her primary career goal is in the field of public health law, particularly within the scope of maternal and reproductive legislation, her involvement in researching the neurobiological and psychological effects of equine therapy on parent-child relationships underscores her ongoing commitment to enhancing her skills and deepening her dedication to driving meaningful and empirically-supported changes in public health policy and its accessibility.

"Growing up in the beautiful state of California, I have been lucky enough to experience firsthand the impact nature has on one’s emotional and mental state. Though my corner of Cali was the mega-urban city of Los Angeles, I hiked, camped, and backpacked my way around the golden state to find the natural spaces I grew to love. On top of this, I rode and competed alongside equine partners for more than half of my life, and found that animal-human relationship to be more impactful than I could ever put into words. Now, studying Green Care, I am able to facilitate that experience of therapeutic animal-human interaction and help to create an environment where individuals can experience the vulnerability and awareness of the present that comes with these wonderful equine creatures. Though I know for my own self the very real impact my relationship with horses has had on me, I look forward to putting that to work in this research, and finding the words and psychological phenomena that make up this experience for so many."

Elizabeth Shin
Therapeutic Garden Specialist
(she/her)

Undergraduate Researcher | Major: Landscape Architecture

Elizabeth's focus centered on the design of outdoor environments with the aim of achieving aesthetic, environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Within the Green Care Lab, she specifically investigated ways to incorporate natural elements into children's play areas. Her research involved a review of empirical neurobiological and physiological studies to inform the creation of an urban garden design that not only promotes physical growth but also nurtures social, emotional, and cognitive development.

"I entered college as a Mathematics major, but switched to Landscape Architecture during my second year. While many people know what architecture is, landscape architecture is a more obscure subject that even I did not know about when I first entered college. It entails the planning, designing, and managing of outdoor environments to achieve aesthetic, environmental, social, or economic outcomes. Spaces such as your neighborhood park, college campus, cemeteries, monuments, and sport facilities are all constructed by landscape architects. These past three years in college have challenged me tremendously, especially with the pandemic, but I’ve loved every minute of it. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to study here with some of the most driven people I have ever met!"

Top, L-R: Dalia Carbajal-Robles, Rebecca Calisi Rodríguez, Ashley Contreras, Eden Hamming, Tubbs, Zora Lou Hartley; Bottom L-R: April Booth, Claire Short, Elizabeth Shin, Nora Bahr, Jessie Ostrove

Meet the Team

Alumni

Amelia Fletes Animal Wellness Specialist(she/her)

Amelia Fletes
Animal Wellness Specialist
(she/her)