Helaina Gomez

Area of Expertise: Ecology and Field Biology, General BiologyHelaina Gomez grew up in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and had the opportunity to appreciate and explore the biodiversity in the Southeast, driving her toward a career in freshwater conservation. Helaina received her Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Field Biology with a minor in General Biology at Shorter University in Rome, Georgia. During her undergrad, she was a founding member of the university’s chapter of the Ecological Society of America, joined the Coosa River Basin Initiative, and conducted research on freshwater mussels endemic to the area. After graduation, Helaina dedicated her time to field work with Southeast Conservation Corps, working alongside the Forest Service in many National Forests of the Southeast. In 2024, Helaina completed her graduate certificate in Behavior Change & Sustainability with UC San Diego and uses her experience and skills in integrative conservation ecology to empower others to make informed decisions about the ways we impact water and wildlife.

My ideal Sunday is spent: Either on the water or in the woods, both with my dog Zoey

I collect: Business cards

Fun fact about me: I have a tattoo that gets me into a music festival for free

Education:

Graduate Certificate in Behavior Change and Sustainability, 2024, University of California: San Diego

B.S., 2020, Shorter University (Ecology and Field Biology)

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