Combating climate change through conservation and sustainability.
Raised on a cattle farm in southern Illinois, Oliva carries many responsibilities – both on the farm and in the home. Between driving tractors, cooking dinner, and helping raise her three younger brothers she maintained a part time job and excelled academically as a dual enrolled student. She not only graduated as Salutatorian of her high school class, but on the same day, graduated with an associates degree from Shawnee Community College. When her mother decided to earn her college degree, she was unable to work and provide for the family, so Olivia stepped in to help support the household finances. A relentlessly positive and determined high performer, Olivia never lost sight of her passion for the environment. Her work for the Youth Conservation Corps in Yellowstone Park, has set a meaningful foundation for protecting, preserving and enhancing the natural resources of our state parks. At SIU Carbondale, she will be focused on combating climate change through conservation and sustainability.
Leadership:
- Salutatorian and Academic Leader
- Family Leadership
- Youth Conservation Corps Leading in Sustainability
