Catherine Mendel

Catherine Mendel is a Graduate Teaching Associate at Penn State University, where responsibilities include instructing undergraduate courses in North American Archaeology and supervising teaching assistants. Mendel's academic pursuits involve dual PhDs in Anthropology and Human Dimensions of Natural Resources and the Environment, emphasizing research in coupled socioecological systems with a focus on access, equity, and community engagement in natural spaces. Experience includes research traineeship with the National Science Foundation's LandscapeU program, where strategic training addresses pressing environmental challenges. Previous positions include Director Fellowships at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, focusing on outreach and social justice in natural resource management, a Seasonal Naturalist role with Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks, and involvement in archaeological projects across various institutions. Educational credentials include a forthcoming PhD from Penn State University and a Bachelor of Science from The Ohio State University.