Heidi Ferris

Heidi is an environmental and science educator with 25+ years of teaching experience. Her doctoral research centers the voices of people as they explain their relationships with places within ecological and social systems. She specializes in community connection, experiential learning, and innovative enviroSTEM curricula, which is an innovative and multidisciplinary approach to education that integrates the principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with a strong focus on environmental applications. 

Her role emphasizes collaboration with CGLL, where she develops accessible, research-based K-12 education programs that reflect local needs, Minnesota Sea Grant research and community water-related issues, such as water resources, coastal resilience, the blue economy, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, and maritime transportation. She builds and sustains partnerships with state, regional, and national organizations to enhance environmental literacy and expand workforce development in Minnesota. Her responsibilities include conducting needs assessments and implementing programs that support educators, school districts, water resource managers, the public, and industry stakeholders.