Olivia Reda first joined the Alliance as Outreach Affiliate to Illinois and Indiana in March 2019. Now, as Volunteer Engagement Associate, Olivia supports the development and implementation of the Alliance’s Adopt-a-Beach volunteer program, as well as other engagement efforts, including the Alliance Ambassadors program. Olivia serves as a point of communication and support for new and returning volunteers, working with volunteers both one-on-one and in group settings to ensure they are empowered to host successful events. She also expands the Alliance’s presence in Great Lakes communities and encourages involvement in Alliance programs through attending Adopt-a-Beach cleanups and other community events. Olivia grew up with a deep appreciation for Lake Michigan and came to the Alliance with a passion for protecting the Great Lakes and its communities and for helping others feel connected to this unique ecosystem.
Olivia earned a B.S. in Environmental Science, along with a minor in Environmental Humanities, from Indiana University Bloomington. Prior to her work at the Alliance, Olivia worked with a variety of environmental organizations, which has included conducting coral reef research on Little Cayman island as an REU student and working as an outdoor trip leader at Indiana University Outdoor Adventures. Olivia has also worked with Indiana Clean Lakes Program as a research assistant and helped to document and treat invasive plant populations on Catalina Island with Catalina Island Conservancy. Most recently, Olivia worked with the Aquatic Plant Maintenance team at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Olivia brings her environmental science background and passion for connecting communities to the natural world to her work at the Alliance. In her spare time, Olivia enjoys indoor gardening, hanging out with her dog, seeing live music with friends, dancing, and exploring new restaurants.