Meet Educator Sally Tyrell

Meet Sally Tyrell, our first-ever Education Intern! Sally is an environmental advocate with a passion for childhood education. Before moving to Chattanooga last summer, she served as a teacher in the Chicago suburbs for three years; however, she soon decided that the outdoor life is for her. In pursuit of a Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Sally was led to the Scenic City to complete her studies at UTC. She dreams of one day becoming an Environmental Education Program Director, so an internship at Reflection Riding became the perfect blend of her two worlds.

“Everybody here knows a lot about different things; you learn so much from different people about different things. I learn just as much here as I do in actual classes.” — Sally Tyrell

“It’s the best—it’s so cool that I get to come and be outside every day.” said Sally.

She notes that her work as an Education Intern changes with each passing day. She may support Summer Camp or design program activities. Her most recent project includes deepening our Nature Playscapes program to cultivate curiosity and nature exploration within children. These five acres are curated for experiential nature play that ignites both the body and mind, so her work helps guide teachers and educators during school visits.

Sally plans to graduate with her degree this December. From there, she will access her next steps on whether to move back home to her family in the Midwest or stay in our area. She has been a huge help to our education staff and overall mission of reconnecting the community with nature. We really appreciate her expertise and understanding of the importance of education and learning with the next generation.

In her own words, “The more you learn about the outside and other people, that causes you to respect your surroundings and other people a lot more.”

Sally, we know great things lie in store for you as you teach the next generation of environmental stewards. We are excited to hear where life will take you!