Ryan's earliest memories begin in the subtle, southernmost city of Key West, Florida. Ryan's father was the definition of a waterman (scuba diver, windsurfer, sailor, swimmer/fish, and in later years kiteboarder, minus a few ribs). Given their pedigree, Ryan and his 2 older brothers learned to swim before they could walk. As soon as they could swim, their father was sailing them to remote uninhabited islands in the Keys, where they were free to snorkel and explore until sunset. The years spent living in the Key's gave birth to a love affair between Ryan and the ocean. The move from tropical Key West, Florida to the wooded hills of central Virginia was a big change. Ryan and his brothers knew nothing of mountains, streams, valleys, or snow, but they learned very quickly. Soon they were building enormous rope swings off the sides of mountains, constructing makeshift rafts to navigate flooded streams, building communities of shelters using only materials the forest provided, and conducting short alpine expeditions when the mountains were covered in snow and ice. Ryan's childhood adventures fostered a passion for nature and helped shape him into the environmental steward that he is today. Following his college graduation Ryan set out on a National Park tour covering 9 National Parks and 13 states in 18 days. He has since worked for numerous camps and organizations helping teens build a lasting relationship with nature and helping them learn new outdoor activities, on land and on water. He is excited to bring his experience and excitement to Costa Rica Adventure and Rock and Roll with Bold Earth this summer!
What BOLD EARTH means to me?: Bold Earth to me is the unique opportunity to help teens have fun while exploring nature's beauty and wonder. I can imagine no better job then working with youth as they try something new, see something extraordinary, and build lasting friendships.
Favorite Quote: "When life gives you lemons, make some kind of fruity juice." - Conan O'Brien
What I do when I'm not at BOLD EARTH: When I'm not at Bold Earth I can be found sailing/swimming at the Boulder Reservoir, rock climbing in Boulder Canyon, hiking/camping in Rocky Mountain National Park, tubing down the Boulder creek, playing music (guitar/piano/ukulele) in my humble abode, or going on a spontaneous road trip to a destination unknown.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation, Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA
