Amanda Hefner

Amanda manages the outreach and education programs at Rowe Sanctuary and works with partners and educators to provide hands-on learning experiences. She enjoys working with people and finding creative ways to connect with others. She grew up in Archer, Nebraska and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where she studied environmental studies and natural resource sciences. Amanda’s previous experience was mostly spent in the Nebraska Sandhills working at The Nature Conservancy’s Niobrara Valley Preserve where she conducted research, led the outreach program, and assisted with land stewardship, including bison roundup and prescribed fire. 

“One key experience that shapes my approach was learning about Conservation storytelling through a course in college taught by storytellers, Michael Forsberg and Michael Farrell. It really opened my eyes to how important our stories are and how some of the best ways to connect to one another is by listening and allowing people the space they need to talk about what is important to them. It’s particularly shaped how I view Crane Season and embrace the magical migration that is March in the Central Platte river valley.”