It has been enlightening and inspirational working with such informed and dedicated professionals who are putting into practice the changes that are necessary to expand our society's environmental literacy. 

Raised in the inner city of East Los Angeles, Fernando began his National Park Service (NPS) career in 2000 at the young age of 18 after being recruited by Santa Monica Mountain

s National Recreation Area. Since, he has worked for the NPS in various states across the country, including Utah and New York, and currently serves as a biologist in California. 

Fernando's environmental education is somewhat unique among his colleagues, learning early on how to find nature in urban settings. While studying wildlife biology and Chicano studies at the University of California-Davis, he also developed an understanding of the important role natures plays in people's health and development, encouraging him to later gain a master's degree in Native American studies from Davis, focusing on engaging Indigenous communities in conservation of traditional lands. This experience allowed him to further incorporate his deep reverence for nature with his keen interest in its cultural significance.

Fernando strongly feels that the Connecting Cultures project will help build upon the knowledge base of how we can break the cultural barriers within the sciences, which limits not only people's access to education, but also the advancement of their socioeconomic conditions, and environmental justice. Fernando is hopeful that the results can help conservation agencies, like the NPS, enhance outreach and education programs. He is excited about working further with all those involved and learning from his participation.