Ema Harrison

Ema graduated from the University of Virginia in 2022 and went on to work with the James River Association in Richmond, Virginia, where she developed and delivered place-based environmental education programs for K–12 students. In 2025, she came to ACES as a Naturalist, expecting a fun season in the mountains, and instead found a deeper connection to both the landscape and the community. She is excited to step into the School Programs Manager position, combining her growing love for place with her experience in environmental education.

Having spent her fair share of time living and learning in wild places, Ema has seen firsthand how powerful it can be when people feel connected to the natural world. Those experiences continue to shape her work, driving her to help others build meaningful relationships with the landscapes they call home through environmental education, outdoor experiences, and support for the people who make those connections possible.

Outside of work, Ema can usually be found saying “yes” to whatever adventure her friends have dreamed up next. She believes some of life’s best learning happens through curiosity, play, and a willingness to follow an interesting trail.