Tia Gaffney

What are your majors? English (creative writing) and environmental studies

Expected graduation: Spring 2028

What inspired your interest in the environment and/or community? I believe my interest in the environment was always a part of me through my Native American ancestry and general love for the outdoors. Growing up I spent countless hours outside, as many children do; summer camping trips are a tradition and continue to be one of my favorite ways to engage with the environment.

But it wasn’t until I joined the environmental club in high school that I realized that it was something I could pursue in my studies and career. Once I began learning about all the intersections between environmentalism, science, culture, health, social justice, politics and art, I was hooked. It’s an extremely interdisciplinary, fascinating and meaningful field. Now I’m interested in exploring environmental justice, sustainability education and equitable food access.