Vanessa (on the left!) is from Tucson, AZ and got her BS in microbiology form the University of Arizona. She moved to Colorado for the natural beauty and new opportunities the state had to offer. Over the years she has developed a special interest in mycology and is currently researching lichen development in the Museum and Field Studies program as a graduate student. Playing viola in the university orchestra, cooking, hiking, and trail running are among other activities Vanessa enjoys.