Studying for my master's degree in Environmental
Conservation with a concentration in Urban Forestry
at UMass Amherst has been a transformative journey
for me. I have always resonated with the tranquility
of the natural world and have a deep-rooted passion
for nature, particularly trees. My advisor is Kristina
Bezanson and my plan is to graduate in May of 2025.
One of the pinnacle moments in my graduate studies
was the opportunity to contribute to the enhance-
ment of the Legacy Tree Program while working for
the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and
Recreation (DCR). The program is dedicated to show-
casing trees of profound historical, cultural, and
botanical significance across Massachusetts, and I
had the opportunity to create a story map about
the trees on the
Legacy Tree Program's website. This
experience,
which I wrote about for the DCR Citizen
Forester,
solidified my commitment to urban forestry.
My aspiration after graduate school is to engage in
either environmental education or urban forestry plan-
ning, aiming to augment green spaces within urban
communities. I firmly believe that the integration of
more trees into urban landscapes is pivotal for fos-
tering healthier, more sustainable environments. Playing
a role in crafting these green spaces and educating
communities about their benefits is bound to be both
professionally fulfilling and personally rewarding.
The mission of the Urban and Community Forestry
Society (UCFS) deeply resonates with my aspirations.
The Society's commitment to advocating for proper
arboricultural practices and urban forest stewardship
that maximizes ecosystem benefits aligns seamlessly
with my goals. I am confident that UCFS can offer
invaluable support in my journey through its net-
working and educational resources. I believe UCFS
will bolster my confidence to educate others on envi-
ronmental issues, enabling me to actively contribute
to fostering a greener, more sustainable future.
During my free time, I love reading and painting, espe-
cially outside! I am currently reading The Nature Fix by
Florence Williams, which discusses why nature makes
us happier, healthier, and more creative. The paintings I
create are usually relating to nature, and I like to paint
on different canvases, like on rocks or wood boards.
Denise Lewis photographing a Japanese elm (Ulmus
japonica), planted in 1899 on the UMass Amherst campus.
The Future of UCFS
Denise Lewis
24 CityTREES
