Executive Director/President. Growing up, Larissa had very few queer role models to look up to, which made coming out and accepting themselves a difficult battle. After graduating college with a B.A. in psychology, they got their first advocacy job and have worked in the nonprofit sector ever since. Larissa’s job experience, combined with her love and respect for the outdoors, is how the formation of Out and About Travels began. Larissa’s travel goals include visiting all 7 continents and seeing the northern lights.

Board Secretary. Andrew grew up in Virginia and Missouri, both places that still hold a special place in his heart. Both places shaped Andrew’s identity and his love for nature. He is grateful for the opportunity to be part of Out and About, where he can help connect others with nature in a way that is ethical and sustainable. When Andrew isn’t exploring in nature, he is writing queer stories and wrangling two one-eyed cats and a dog.

Board Treasurer. Zach grew up in West Tennessee. He is passionate about connecting marginalized groups with the outdoors, working with horses, and building revolutionary power among all people. This ranges from a B.S. in Nonprofit Leadership to investing in underserved youth in the outdoors. A fun fact about him is that he is a great dancer and loves working with horses.

Board Member. Amiel grew up in a small conservative town in California’s high desert. When they came out, they sought out an environment where they knew they’d belong. From writing about queerness and its correlation to nature for their B.A. in English Literature to working on a farm, goofing around and experiencing the striking beauty of nature, Amiel aims to create a quiet life filled with beauty and a loving community. 

Board Member. I grew up in Canada but have lived in the Ozarks for nearly 30 years.  Currently a corporate girlie, I prefer to try my hand at anything I am absolutely not qualified to do, like painting animal portraits or remodeling a bathroom. The lush forests of the Ozarks are my favorite geography in the world, and it's a true honor to help others enjoy them just as much as I do.

Board Member. April has a background in education and has taught a wide range of age groups. She has experience raising funds for multiple nonprofit organizations throughout collegiate career. Accepting that they were a lesbian was a long and challenging road, but rewarding in the end. Nature has always given April a sense of calm and community whether it was hammocking by the Arkansas River to take a break from studying or climbing Mt. Petit Jean with friends.

Board Member. Hi! I’m Ellen and I live in Southwest Missouri. I am a fervent gardener and plant lover, tending to my big cut-flower and vegetable garden at home. I find much needed solace and strength in nature and have seen first hand the positive effect of green spaces on mental health. I believe in creating safe, affirming spaces in the outdoors. I am excited to serve of the OAT board of directors to help break down barriers and increase representation for LGBTQIA2S+ folks in outdoor spaces.

Board Member. I’m Haley, from the beautiful coast of North Carolina. I’m passionate about creating safe, joyful and memorable experiences for queer folks, which is why I decided it was important to join the Out and About board. Working on a vibrant farm, I had so much fun providing guidance with student programs that blended outdoor activities with social-emotional learning, helping everyone connect and thrive in a supportive environment. Learning, loving and creating together is what makes the world a better place! 

Board Member. Jeanne grew up in a small town in Upstate New York and spent most of their childhood outside in one way or another. Developing a fascination with the natural world and how everything connected, she went on to graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Studies. With this Jeanne hopes to help create a safe and accessible natural world for everyone, which led them to join the board of Out And About Travels! When not wandering around the woods, they like to read, sew, and play board games with friends.

Board Member. Hi everyone! I’m Santiago and I’m so excited to be able to contribute to Out and About’s mission. I’ve seen first hand the lasting impact that allowing young adults the space to be themselves and build community with peers has on students. I’ve learned alongside students that my presence as a model for open queerness in the “professional” world adds another foundational level of safety for students who are already being brave by simultaneously stepping into the unknown and their own future. I look forward to helping others become that foundation for themselves!

Board Member. T. is based in Long Beach with a background in development, communications, and advocacy. They hold a Master’s in Public Administration and a certificate in nonprofit management. Outside of work, T. finds connection and calm in nature—whether it’s hiking local trails with their partner and pups or taking late-night walks by the ocean. T. is excited to support Out and About Travels in creating joyful, affirming outdoor experiences for the LGBTQ+ community.