Advisor Availability Calendar
For more information contact: (510) 642-0542 or askcnr@berkeley.edu.
*Please note that our advising offices are closed between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Wednesdays for Staff Meeting
The Undergraduate Advisors for all CNR majors are located in the Office of Instruction and Student Affairs, 260 Mulford Hall. See below for each advisor's direct contact information.
Conservation and Resource Studies (CRS)
Sarah Hamilton
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Conservation & Resource Studies
The sense of community and student advocacy drew me to the College of Natural Resources in March 2018. Working with students is my favorite part of this job. Hearing the strength and perseverance of each student's journey dictates my work as an advisor. Working from a learning-centered approach, I work to discover the most effective advising approach I can utilize to help each individual student.
I found my love for education at community college where my collegiate journey began. Born and raised in Napa, California, I attended Napa Community College. I then transferred to CSU Chico. There I completed my undergraduate and Masters degree in counseling psychology. I interned at the counseling center on campus and fell in love with working in student services and in a university community. I then worked at a private university in San Francisco before coming to UC Berkeley in 2016.
When I am not in the office, you can find me in San Francisco where I live with my adorable cat, Patrick. I love exploring every inch of the city, including its many delicious restaurants, and the amazing nature that the overall Bay Area has to offer. Shout out to Marin for providing breathtaking hikes to enjoy! I also love to travel and explore different cultures. So far I have been to South Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam with ambitions to explore South America next. I am always excited to hear your travel and study abroad aspirations.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you through your own collegiate journey!
Ecosystem Management and Forestry (EMF)
Ginnie Sadil
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Ecosystem Management & Forestry, Environmental Sciences
Minors: Forestry and Natural Resources, Geospatial Info. Science & Tech
I started in the College of Natural Resources three years ago after spending over seven years as major advisor in Letters and Science. My educational and professional journey has been extremely non-traditional and I have first-hand experience that life is not always linear or predictable. Having grown up in Hawaii, I have a great affinity for green space and I love working with students focused on environmental issues. I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the university and its population of academics, students, and activists.
I find joy in working with a local rescue; I’ve fostered nearly 50 animals. My neighborhood is full of trails, but mostly I just end up walking my two very active dogs. To relax, you’ll find me glued to a book, planning my next trip, or watching a favorite movie/anime.
Environmental Economics and Policy (EEP)
Anna Hoehenrieder
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Environmental Economics & Policy (Last names A-K)
I graduated from UC Davis with degrees in psychology and statistics. In college I really appreciated the opportunities given by student organizations, academic research, and on campus internships, and I would highly encourage all students to take advantage of these extracurricular activies. After graduationg I went onto work as a private tutor for various subjects including math, statistics, psychology, and test prep for students ranging in age from 8 to 50 years old. During this time I also worked two summers in the Summer Focus program through Education Unlimited, in which high school students took UC Berkeley classes. Through tutoring and working with students over the summer I valued the ability to form close connections with students while guiding them through their academic studies. I bring the same attitude towards being an academic advisor. I believe that college is a transformative, if brief, experience and I enjoy being able to help students through the administrative processes while helping them to plan beyond graduation. I am happy to answer any questions you may have so please do not hestitate to email me or set up an appointment.
William Hughes
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Environmental Economics & Policy (last names L-Z)
I was born in Austin, TX but grew up in Indianapolis, IN. I earned my B.A. in Mathematics from Earlham College in May 2002 and then moved to Santa Barbara, CA shortly after graduation. I began my career in higher education in October 2002 at UC Santa Barbara, where I would go on to work as an academic advisor for 3 departments in 10 years. In June 2012, I moved to the Bay Area and have been with the College of Natural Resources ever since. In my time with CNR, I have been an Environmental Economics & Policy advisor. I view my role as an academic advisor as a partnership with the student to help inform them on basic degree requirements as well as serve as a resource on campus to provide information and other resources based on the student's interests that will help the student maximize their Berkeley experience both in and outside of the classroom setting. One example of this is study abroad. As an undergrad, I studied abroad in Spain and strongly encourage any student who has ever thought about studying abroad to really consider making a program plan to incorporate this awesome undergraduate experience into your academic plan. If you're an EEP student or intended EEP student who needs any assistance with this, stop by 260 Mulford and let's work it out!
Environmental Sciences (ES)
Ginnie Sadil
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Ecosystem Management & Forestry, Environmental Sciences
Minors: Forestry and Natural Resources, Geospatial Info. Science & Tech
I started in the College of Natural Resources three years ago after spending over seven years as major advisor in Letters and Science. My educational and professional journey has been extremely non-traditional and I have first-hand experience that life is not always linear or predictable. Having grown up in Hawaii, I have a great affinity for green space and I love working with students focused on environmental issues. I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the university and its population of academics, students, and activists.
I find joy in working with a local rescue; I’ve fostered nearly 50 animals. My neighborhood is full of trails, but mostly I just end up walking my two very active dogs. To relax, you’ll find me glued to a book, planning my next trip, or watching a favorite movie/anime.
Genetics & Plant Biology (GPB) and Microbial Biology (MB)
Patricia Helyer
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Genetics & Plant Biology, Microbial Biology
As an advisor, I use an appreciative strengths-based framework to collaborate with students and work towards achieving their goals. I help students find their path to leading intentional, meaningful lives by seeing the bigger picture and making a better world (CNR's credo!). A bit about me and my path: I am a first generation immigrant, 1st generation college student born in Colombia South America and raised in Massachusetts. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and studied English Literature. I changed careers to focus on student needs in higher education after receiving my Masters in Public Health from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Working with students is the highlight of every day. I have two fantastic dogs and am overly fond of PBS British period piece/nature/baking shows and crafting.
Molecular Environmental Biology (MEB)
Leleña Avila
Undergraduate Advisor
CNR Undeclared Students
Major: Molecular Environmental Biology (Last Name A-C)
I love helping people as they navigate their education: with my many years of experience at public universities as an undergraduate, graduate student, and as a staff member, I feel uniquely positioned to do just that! I am a Cal alumna and received my B.S. from the College of Natural Resources in Conservation and Resource Studies. I earned a Master’s degree in Biology from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Virginia where I studied the ecology, evolution, and behavior of garter snakes using both field and lab investigations. I am fortunate to have taught a variety of biology related courses, mentored students at different levels (ranging from middle school to graduate school), and have coordinated intern and undergraduate programs at Cal. I have been employed at UC Berkeley for over 10 years, working previously as a manager and educator at the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology and at Lawrence Hall of Science here at UC Berkeley, and I advised MBA students at the Haas School of Business. On my personal time I enjoy hiking, crafting, reading, movies, watching sports, and playing games.
Elizabeth Storer
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Molecular Environmental Biology (Last Names D-Z)
I've worked at Berkeley and CNR Advising since 2013, and I love the small community here in CNR. I particularly enjoy the ability to work with students from the time they enter college all the way through graduation. I went to UC Davis and studied Psychology, minoring in Education and Spanish. I got my Master's at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in Counseling and Guidance for Higher Education. I'm a CA native, having lived in the Sacramento area most of my life. My approach to advising is developmental, it's important to me to help students feel heard and validated as they navigate this large university. When I'm not at work, you can find me cuddling my two kitties, reading Harry Potter, or rewatching The Office.
Nutritional Sciences & Toxicology (NST)
Meaghan DeRespini
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Nutritional Sciences - Dietetics, Physiology & Metabolism, and Toxicology
Minors: Nutritional Sciences, Toxicology, Food Systems
I grew up in the San Joaquin Valley (shout out to Tracy!) and have always been interested in education. In high school, I spent time as a teacher’s aid and tutor in local middle schools, and, linked with my interest in teaching, an impactful set of learning experiences in high school history classes directed me toward pursuing a teaching credential in Social Studies Education. I ran off to the East Coast for college, completing my undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education and Master’s in International Education at New York University, and though I loved/love New York City (just check out that giant canvas in my office), I always knew I’d come back to California.
While I worked on completing my California teaching credential, I started working in the Education Department at UC Berkeley Extension as a program coordinator and decided I really liked this higher education thing. I moved to undergraduate advising in the Letters & Science Fall Program for Freshmen in 2014 and then over to the College of Natural Resource in the summer of 2018. In CNR, I support Nutritional Science major and minor students and students pursuing the Food Systems minor. I also coordinate the Honors Program for the college and am interested more broadly in scholarship around first year experience programs, students in transition, college admissions, and professional mentorship. I am impressed and inspired by students every single day, and consider myself pretty lucky to know them and be one small part of their journey. When I’m not spending my time trying to understand what my students are actually studying (what the heck is an adipocyte??), I enjoy reading, running, indulging my sweet tooth, and learning about sharks, dinosaurs, and dragons with my son.
Society & Environment (S&E)
Ryann Madden
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Society & Environment
Minors: Energy & Resources Group, Summer Minor in Sustainability
I am very excited to be a CNR academic advisor supporting students interested in seeing a bigger picture and making a better world. From my own experience, I have enjoyed learning and living in nature, seeing the world through different cultures and times, and building solutions through local and regional agencies. The work our Society and Environment students do in the College, and the passion and creativity every student has in the University, is really exciting.
I have supported students as a Spanish and AP US History teacher in San Antonio, Texas, World Geography and MUN teacher in Houston, Texas, and support advisor in Oakland, California. I know that no matter the age, students with drive and curiosity do great work, and I hope to build space to allow students to find those inner tools. I have a bachelor's degree in Spanish and history from Trinity University and a master's degree in secondary education from the same institution.
When not talking about education, I am visiting my family in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, hiking in Pacifica, reading, improving, laughing, learning, or playing dodgeball (yes, it's a real sport). Come by and share your goals with me. I would look forward to the chance to help you work on them while attending UC Berkeley.
Undeclared Advisor
Leleña Avila
Undergraduate Advisor
CNR Undeclared Students
Major: Molecular Environmental Biology (Last Name A-C)
I love helping people as they navigate their education: with my many years of experience at public universities as an undergraduate, graduate student, and as a staff member, I feel uniquely positioned to do just that! I am a Cal alumna and received my B.S. from the College of Natural Resources in Conservation and Resource Studies. I earned a Master’s degree in Biology from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Virginia where I studied the ecology, evolution, and behavior of garter snakes using both field and lab investigations. I am fortunate to have taught a variety of biology related courses, mentored students at different levels (ranging from middle school to graduate school), and have coordinated intern and undergraduate programs at Cal. I have been employed at UC Berkeley for over 10 years, working previously as a manager and educator at the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology and at Lawrence Hall of Science here at UC Berkeley, and I advised MBA students at the Haas School of Business. On my personal time I enjoy hiking, crafting, reading, movies, watching sports, and playing games.
Conservation and Resource Studies (CRS)
Sarah Hamilton
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Conservation & Resource Studies
The sense of community and student advocacy drew me to the College of Natural Resources in March 2018. Working with students is my favorite part of this job. Hearing the strength and perseverance of each student's journey dictates my work as an advisor. Working from a learning-centered approach, I work to discover the most effective advising approach I can utilize to help each individual student.
I found my love for education at community college where my collegiate journey began. Born and raised in Napa, California, I attended Napa Community College. I then transferred to CSU Chico. There I completed my undergraduate and Masters degree in counseling psychology. I interned at the counseling center on campus and fell in love with working in student services and in a university community. I then worked at a private university in San Francisco before coming to UC Berkeley in 2016.
When I am not in the office, you can find me in San Francisco where I live with my adorable cat, Patrick. I love exploring every inch of the city, including its many delicious restaurants, and the amazing nature that the overall Bay Area has to offer. Shout out to Marin for providing breathtaking hikes to enjoy! I also love to travel and explore different cultures. So far I have been to South Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam with ambitions to explore South America next. I am always excited to hear your travel and study abroad aspirations.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you through your own collegiate journey!
Energy and Resources Group (ERG)
Ryann Madden
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Society & Environment
Minors: Energy & Resources Group, Summer Minor in Sustainability
I am very excited to be a CNR academic advisor supporting students interested in seeing a bigger picture and making a better world. From my own experience, I have enjoyed learning and living in nature, seeing the world through different cultures and times, and building solutions through local and regional agencies. The work our Society and Environment students do in the College, and the passion and creativity every student has in the University, is really exciting.
I have supported students as a Spanish and AP US History teacher in San Antonio, Texas, World Geography and MUN teacher in Houston, Texas, and support advisor in Oakland, California. I know that no matter the age, students with drive and curiosity do great work, and I hope to build space to allow students to find those inner tools. I have a bachelor's degree in Spanish and history from Trinity University and a master's degree in secondary education from the same institution.
When not talking about education, I am visiting my family in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, hiking in Pacifica, reading, improving, laughing, learning, or playing dodgeball (yes, it's a real sport). Come by and share your goals with me. I would look forward to the chance to help you work on them while attending UC Berkeley.
Environmental Economics and Policy (EEP)
Anna Hoehenrieder
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Environmental Economics & Policy (Last names A-K)
I graduated from UC Davis with degrees in psychology and statistics. In college I really appreciated the opportunities given by student organizations, academic research, and on campus internships, and I would highly encourage all students to take advantage of these extracurricular activies. After graduationg I went onto work as a private tutor for various subjects including math, statistics, psychology, and test prep for students ranging in age from 8 to 50 years old. During this time I also worked two summers in the Summer Focus program through Education Unlimited, in which high school students took UC Berkeley classes. Through tutoring and working with students over the summer I valued the ability to form close connections with students while guiding them through their academic studies. I bring the same attitude towards being an academic advisor. I believe that college is a transformative, if brief, experience and I enjoy being able to help students through the administrative processes while helping them to plan beyond graduation. I am happy to answer any questions you may have so please do not hestitate to email me or set up an appointment.
William Hughes
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors and Minors: Environmental Economics & Policy (last names L-Z)
I was born in Austin, TX but grew up in Indianapolis, IN. I earned my B.A. in Mathematics from Earlham College in May 2002 and then moved to Santa Barbara, CA shortly after graduation. I began my career in higher education in October 2002 at UC Santa Barbara, where I would go on to work as an academic advisor for 3 departments in 10 years. In June 2012, I moved to the Bay Area and have been with the College of Natural Resources ever since. In my time with CNR, I have been an Environmental Economics & Policy advisor. I view my role as an academic advisor as a partnership with the student to help inform them on basic degree requirements as well as serve as a resource on campus to provide information and other resources based on the student's interests that will help the student maximize their Berkeley experience both in and outside of the classroom setting. One example of this is study abroad. As an undergrad, I studied abroad in Spain and strongly encourage any student who has ever thought about studying abroad to really consider making a program plan to incorporate this awesome undergraduate experience into your academic plan. If you're an EEP student or intended EEP student who needs any assistance with this, stop by 260 Mulford and let's work it out!
Food Systems (FS)
Meaghan DeRespini
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Nutritional Sciences - Dietetics, Physiology & Metabolism, and Toxicology
Minors: Nutritional Sciences, Toxicology, Food Systems
I grew up in the San Joaquin Valley (shout out to Tracy!) and have always been interested in education. In high school, I spent time as a teacher’s aid and tutor in local middle schools, and, linked with my interest in teaching, an impactful set of learning experiences in high school history classes directed me toward pursuing a teaching credential in Social Studies Education. I ran off to the East Coast for college, completing my undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education and Master’s in International Education at New York University, and though I loved/love New York City (just check out that giant canvas in my office), I always knew I’d come back to California.
While I worked on completing my California teaching credential, I started working in the Education Department at UC Berkeley Extension as a program coordinator and decided I really liked this higher education thing. I moved to undergraduate advising in the Letters & Science Fall Program for Freshmen in 2014 and then over to the College of Natural Resource in the summer of 2018. In CNR, I support Nutritional Science major and minor students and students pursuing the Food Systems minor. I also coordinate the Honors Program for the college and am interested more broadly in scholarship around first year experience programs, students in transition, college admissions, and professional mentorship. I am impressed and inspired by students every single day, and consider myself pretty lucky to know them and be one small part of their journey. When I’m not spending my time trying to understand what my students are actually studying (what the heck is an adipocyte??), I enjoy reading, running, indulging my sweet tooth, and learning about sharks, dinosaurs, and dragons with my son.
Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Ginnie Sadil
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Ecosystem Management & Forestry, Environmental Sciences
Minors: Forestry and Natural Resources, Geospatial Info. Science & Tech
I started in the College of Natural Resources three years ago after spending over seven years as major advisor in Letters and Science. My educational and professional journey has been extremely non-traditional and I have first-hand experience that life is not always linear or predictable. Having grown up in Hawaii, I have a great affinity for green space and I love working with students focused on environmental issues. I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the university and its population of academics, students, and activists.
I find joy in working with a local rescue; I’ve fostered nearly 50 animals. My neighborhood is full of trails, but mostly I just end up walking my two very active dogs. To relax, you’ll find me glued to a book, planning my next trip, or watching a favorite movie/anime.
Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST)
Ginnie Sadil
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Ecosystem Management & Forestry, Environmental Sciences
Minors: Forestry and Natural Resources, Geospatial Info. Science & Tech
I started in the College of Natural Resources three years ago after spending over seven years as major advisor in Letters and Science. My educational and professional journey has been extremely non-traditional and I have first-hand experience that life is not always linear or predictable. Having grown up in Hawaii, I have a great affinity for green space and I love working with students focused on environmental issues. I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the university and its population of academics, students, and activists.
I find joy in working with a local rescue; I’ve fostered nearly 50 animals. My neighborhood is full of trails, but mostly I just end up walking my two very active dogs. To relax, you’ll find me glued to a book, planning my next trip, or watching a favorite movie/anime.
Molecular Toxicology (MT)
Meaghan DeRespini
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Nutritional Sciences - Dietetics, Physiology & Metabolism, and Toxicology
Minors: Nutritional Sciences, Toxicology, Food Systems
I grew up in the San Joaquin Valley (shout out to Tracy!) and have always been interested in education. In high school, I spent time as a teacher’s aid and tutor in local middle schools, and, linked with my interest in teaching, an impactful set of learning experiences in high school history classes directed me toward pursuing a teaching credential in Social Studies Education. I ran off to the East Coast for college, completing my undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education and Master’s in International Education at New York University, and though I loved/love New York City (just check out that giant canvas in my office), I always knew I’d come back to California.
While I worked on completing my California teaching credential, I started working in the Education Department at UC Berkeley Extension as a program coordinator and decided I really liked this higher education thing. I moved to undergraduate advising in the Letters & Science Fall Program for Freshmen in 2014 and then over to the College of Natural Resource in the summer of 2018. In CNR, I support Nutritional Science major and minor students and students pursuing the Food Systems minor. I also coordinate the Honors Program for the college and am interested more broadly in scholarship around first year experience programs, students in transition, college admissions, and professional mentorship. I am impressed and inspired by students every single day, and consider myself pretty lucky to know them and be one small part of their journey. When I’m not spending my time trying to understand what my students are actually studying (what the heck is an adipocyte??), I enjoy reading, running, indulging my sweet tooth, and learning about sharks, dinosaurs, and dragons with my son.
Nutritional Sciences (NS)
Meaghan DeRespini
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Nutritional Sciences - Dietetics, Physiology & Metabolism, and Toxicology
Minors: Nutritional Sciences, Toxicology, Food Systems
I grew up in the San Joaquin Valley (shout out to Tracy!) and have always been interested in education. In high school, I spent time as a teacher’s aid and tutor in local middle schools, and, linked with my interest in teaching, an impactful set of learning experiences in high school history classes directed me toward pursuing a teaching credential in Social Studies Education. I ran off to the East Coast for college, completing my undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education and Master’s in International Education at New York University, and though I loved/love New York City (just check out that giant canvas in my office), I always knew I’d come back to California.
While I worked on completing my California teaching credential, I started working in the Education Department at UC Berkeley Extension as a program coordinator and decided I really liked this higher education thing. I moved to undergraduate advising in the Letters & Science Fall Program for Freshmen in 2014 and then over to the College of Natural Resource in the summer of 2018. In CNR, I support Nutritional Science major and minor students and students pursuing the Food Systems minor. I also coordinate the Honors Program for the college and am interested more broadly in scholarship around first year experience programs, students in transition, college admissions, and professional mentorship. I am impressed and inspired by students every single day, and consider myself pretty lucky to know them and be one small part of their journey. When I’m not spending my time trying to understand what my students are actually studying (what the heck is an adipocyte??), I enjoy reading, running, indulging my sweet tooth, and learning about sharks, dinosaurs, and dragons with my son.
Summer Minor in Sustainability
Ryann Madden
Undergraduate Advisor
Majors: Society & Environment
Minors: Energy & Resources Group, Summer Minor in Sustainability
I am very excited to be a CNR academic advisor supporting students interested in seeing a bigger picture and making a better world. From my own experience, I have enjoyed learning and living in nature, seeing the world through different cultures and times, and building solutions through local and regional agencies. The work our Society and Environment students do in the College, and the passion and creativity every student has in the University, is really exciting.
I have supported students as a Spanish and AP US History teacher in San Antonio, Texas, World Geography and MUN teacher in Houston, Texas, and support advisor in Oakland, California. I know that no matter the age, students with drive and curiosity do great work, and I hope to build space to allow students to find those inner tools. I have a bachelor's degree in Spanish and history from Trinity University and a master's degree in secondary education from the same institution.
When not talking about education, I am visiting my family in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, hiking in Pacifica, reading, improving, laughing, learning, or playing dodgeball (yes, it's a real sport). Come by and share your goals with me. I would look forward to the chance to help you work on them while attending UC Berkeley.
The Peer Advising Leadership (PAL) Program of CNR strives to offer personal viewpoints and experiences to current and prospective CNR students. These students are trained in understanding CNR and University requirements, policies, and procedures, and are available to answer questions in 260 Mulford Hall or via email. For more information about CNR PALs and how to contact them, visit their page.
Lynn Huntsinger
I am the Associate Dean of Instruction and Student Affairs for the College of Natural Resources. Teaching for more than 30 years in the College, I appreciate the enthusiasm, curiosity, and tremendous capabilities of our undergraduates. I support our advisors in their efforts to help students navigate the complex challenges, and opportunities, of Berkeley. My goal is to help students develop the skills to be lifelong learners and critical thinkers, and to become leaders, achievers, and contributors. I work to help the College offer diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth, and to help students experience the rewards of accomplishment: academic, personal, and through public service. Our students come from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures, and I believe this a tremendous opportunity for all of us to learn how to bring people together, and support each other, to work for the common good.
As a professor and Russell L. Rustici Chair in Rangeland Ecology and Management in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, my research focuses on the conservation and management of grasslands and woodlands, evaluating in particular social and ecological systems that support working landscapes in the western United States. My academic website is here.
Marques Redd
Assistant Dean of Instruction & Student Affairs
Every day, I truly feel excited and blessed to be the Assistant Dean of Instruction and Student Affairs for the College of Natural Resources. I enjoy continuously learning about the varied intellectual, social, cultural, and political projects that students and faculty are working on, and I am inspired by the passion so many in this college display for preserving the earth we all share. My work is to build an infrastructure that supports the learning that happens inside and outside of the classroom and to empower students to use a variety of tools to define and claim success in their own terms.
My journey to CNR has been filled with many twists and turns. I am originally from Macon, Georgia, and I graduated from Harvard University with undergraduate degrees in Social Studies and African & Afro-American Studies. After finishing there, I came to UC Berkeley to pursue a PhD in English literature. My research focused on the intersection of African cosmology and 19th-century British and American literature. I followed the faculty track for a while, serving as a professor at Texas State University, the University of Notre Dame, and Marquette University. I took a break from the academy to try my hand at entrepreneurship. I ran my own company for two years and worked on a variety of writing and media projects. Realizing though that I missed the energy of the academic life, I decided to return to UC Berkeley as an administrator. I worked at the School of Public Health for three years, where I was the Associate Director of Student Services, before arriving here at CNR.
A mantra often repeated in the college is “See the bigger picture. Make a better world.” I look forward to creating programming, events, and other opportunities to help all of our students do these seemingly simple, but immensely complex, things.
Craig Crossley
Student Services Representative
I was born in Washington D.C. but was raised in Charleston, South Carolina. I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of South Carolina, where I focused in drawing and photography. After graduation, I completed three years of AmeriCorps service – including one year in the Office of Student Life at the University of South Carolina Upstate. It was there I discovered my passion for university environments and appreciation for the interconnectivity of campus departments.
At the end of my AmeriCorps service, I moved up to Seattle, Washington to work at Amazon’s corporate headquarters as a member of the Transit Team. For two years, our team managed, developed, and articulated transportation benefits for Amazon employees. In the fall of 2018, I traveled to New Zealand to complete a semester of NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) – whitewater canoeing, hiking, and mountaineering on the South Island. Upon my arrival back to the US, I loaded up a moving truck and drove from Seattle to start my role here at Berkeley!
At home, I enjoy gardening, cooking, and working on art projects in a variety of mediums. My favorite things to do in Berkeley are to discover new parts of the city on my bike and try any of the wonderful vegan restaurants here. I am generally quite excited about life, but I display exceptional exuberance about the environment, movies, politics, cats, board games, astronomy, and bargain shopping.