TRISH HISCOCK-AUSTIN
Youth Program Director & Lead Outdoor Educator

Trish is a big fan of: Mud on her boots. Sand in her toes. Music on her radio. Sunny mornings and breezy afternoons. She's a goofy mom of three wonderfully goofy teenagers, and has spent the past two decades surrounded by young people, learning from them and learning with them. And thank goodness for that! Kids are THE BEST. They are the best teachers, try-er-out-ers, and creators. Trish is a Minnesota Master Naturalist with the University of Minnesota, and earned her B.A. in Political Science & Peace Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College. She's been lucky enough to be an educator and leader in schools and learning environments ranging from preK age to high school. She's worked as a Park Ranger at Minneopa State Park, and as an early-years educator, childcare provider, parent liaison, youth program manager, outdoor educator, K-6 elementary administrative assistant, substitute teacher, and is an avid environmental education and public school choice advocate. Asked what motivates her, Trish says: "Empowering kids in everyday acts of bravery ~~ especially in trying new things and in caring for people and for the planet. That's my calling and my everyday inspiration." Her favorite beach is at the very-near-by Duck Lake county park. Small but mighty.