GARDENZ 4 GROWTH

Founder - Amanda Harris-Beaner

I graduated from Elizabethtown College with a BS in Biology and Anthropology. I was the recipient of the 2011 Department of Biology Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. I am a member of Beta Beta Beta Biological Society Rho Lambda Chapter and a member of Lambda Alpha Anthropology Honors Society.  I love the outdoor environment so in college I did environmental research with professors which brought a better understanding of applicable scientific methods and data collection.  My favorite Research projects were "Determining factors of stream mitigation through salamander population", "A pilot study on small fish habitat in sea grass" and ‘Environmental impact on the painted turtle population."

My educational path was not straightforward and created unique opportunities to develop and grow. I have learned being fluid, flexible and amenable is crucial for success. My focus is on the future and sustainability is a journey I want to be on, not a set of instructions.

I have several licenses and coached soccer for 10+ years.  Coaching has provided me with important fundamental teaching skills, the ability to navigate tough conversations and strategic learning methods. My management and training skills from work have prepared me to function efficiently in fluid and pressure environments.

I am currently enrolled in the MBS program at Rutgers: Global food technology and Innovation with a focus on Sustainability. I want to help make the next generations more ecologically focused, environmentally aware, and socially responsible.

I am also a mother of two exuberant boys.  During Covid I became their teacher and realized how vitally important education, the environment, and stewardship is.  I try to impart little lessons every day and want to help others do the same. I truly believe that the desire for all to succeed is invaluable.