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Meet Ava Hampton – New MSTP Program Coordinator

Background

Hi, everyone! My name is Ava Hampton, and I’m excited to be part of the MSTP team. A little background on me…I grew up just north of Indianapolis, Indiana, and have always had a passion for the outdoors and the natural world. That passion led me to attend Eastern Kentucky University, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management with a concentration in Conservation. During my time at EKU, I also worked with the Environmental Education Office, which gave me the opportunity to share my love of science and nature with younger students. It was there that I discovered how much I enjoyed teaching, supporting students, and helping others learn.

Family

I grew up with my mom, dad, and my twin sister, Lily. Even though we’re twins, and in my opinion, we look absolutely nothing alike. Lily is hands down my best friend, and growing up with a built-in partner for adventures, milestones, and memories has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. My family has always been incredibly supportive of my goals and has played a major role in helping me become the person I am today. We also have two family dogs who I miss dearly, Freya & Moose (shown below).

 

Path to the MSTP Program

After graduating from Eastern Kentucky University, I returned to Indiana and taught Environmental Science to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. I loved helping students develop an appreciation for the environment and seeing their excitement as they discovered new concepts and ideas. While teaching was incredibly rewarding, I eventually realized that I wanted to make an impact beyond the walls of a single classroom and support a broader community of learners.

That desire ultimately led me to the MSTP. Although my professional journey began in wildlife conservation and environmental science, the common thread throughout my career has always been education, mentorship, and service. What excites me most about working with MSTP is the opportunity to support students as they pursue their goals, overcome challenges, and navigate important milestones in their educational journeys. I am thrilled to be part of a program that is dedicated to helping students succeed and am excited to continue making a positive impact in this new role.

Hobbies

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring local coffee shops, discovering new antique stores, and seeking out new experiences. I still love spending time outdoors whenever I can, whether that means hiking a scenic trail, visiting a state park, or simply enjoying a day in nature. I also have a creative side and enjoy crocheting and creating mosaic art projects. These hobbies give me the chance to relax, express my creativity, and maintain a healthy balance between work and life. I enjoy trying new things, staying curious, and finding opportunities to learn and grow—qualities that I bring with me both personally and professionally.

 

 

Moose

Freya

 

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