Our AmeriCorps Members
The Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute has an AmeriCorps program that currently serves communities all over the state of Idaho as well as the greater Portland region. Through partnerships with schools, community-based organizations and government agencies, PCEI addresses critical environmental and equity issues in the areas of healthy watersheds, energy and resource conservation, environmental education and outreach, as well as sustainable community development.
National and Community Service programs meet critical needs in areas such as education, public safety, health and the environment through partnerships with public agencies, non-profits, faith-based and other local organizations.
2025-2026 Members
Julia Albertson
Outdoor Science Educator, Moscow Adventure Club
Julia grew up in the Central Valley of California where she learned to love nature from a young age. From the Sierra Nevadas, to the Northern California coast, and even her backyard, Julia loved learning about all the outdoor critters. Due to her outdoor-loving personality, she attended the University of Oregon. While at Oregon, she developed an interest in ecology, environmental science, and climate change. She earned a degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies. Along with her interests in biology and nature, Julia noticed a pattern in her work experiences. From coaching youth soccer and working as a hiking guide to tutoring chemistry and teaching marine biology in Tahiti, she was always drawn to roles involving community engagement and education. Through her experiences, Julia developed a passion for local involvement and community engagement to address the global threat of environmental degradation. Now, finding herself in Moscow, she is excited to work towards these goals by teaching science to kids in the community. When she's not in the classroom, you might find her painting, hiking on the mountain, or swimming.
Kennedy Karns
Outdoor Science Lead, Moscow Adventure Club
Kennedy Karns graduated from the University of Olivet in 2023 with a degree in Biology, minoring in gerontology. Kennedy, for the past two years after graduation, has been traveling around the country carrying out various conservation positions where she has found her love for the outdoors. Kennedy plans to further her education in the next couple of years with a master's degree. In her free time, Kennedy enjoys backpacking, crocheting, and reading.
Leah Rogers
Night Sky Conservationist, Boise State University/Bruneau Dunes State Park/Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve
Leah has always been inspired by the beauty of Idaho’s dark skies and the mysteries of the universe. As a recent graduate from Boise State University, Leah earned her Bachelor’s in Physics with an emphasis on Astrophysics, studying pulsar identification and characterization. Growing up in Boise, Leah has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the natural spaces that surround the city. She joined PCEI as the Dark Sky Conservationist to share Idaho’s remarkable night skies and raise awareness about the impacts of light pollution. Outside of her work, Leah enjoys cooking and baking, swimming in rivers, snowboarding on fresh snow, and cuddling with her cat.