Edgar Alvarez

STRAW Education Manager

As STRAW’s Education Manager, I facilitate educational opportunities for students to learn and make positive change in their local community through active restoration. In the summer, I coordinate the Community College Conservation Internship (CCCI) program and work to help pave a way for people of color in the environmental field.

I grew up in Los Angeles where I was fortunate enough to live right next to the LA River. Specifically, the part of the LA River that isn’t paved, next to Frogtown. Exploring the LA River is a constant memory for me, a whole other world teeming with wildlife, right next to one of the biggest urban areas in the U.S. As I widened my search outside of the city and experienced nature in designated lands, my passion for the outdoors increased. I went on to get my bachelor’s degree from CSU Long Beach in Geography and minor in Environmental Science and Policy.

I realized working in environmental education back home that representation as a person of color in this field matters. It builds bridges and allows for science to be inclusive – I want to encourage the next generation to feel a sense of belonging being outdoors.

I enjoy running, rock climbing, fishing, or anything that’ll keep me outdoors and active.

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