Sam graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a B.S. in Environmental Management and Protection, and a minor in both Biology and Indigenous Studies with a concentration in Botany. She worked for California State Parks for five years, where she developed a passion for restoration work through invasive plant removal and native plant propagation. Previously, Sam worked for Audubon California, SLO Botanical Garden and The Dune Center. In her current role as Restoration Project Manager, Sam’s work includes habitat restoration, invasive species management and rare plant conservation.

In her free time, she enjoys the company of her nine pets and exploring the beautiful Central Coast.