Brief Bio

Interested in educational systems and leadership, Becky Hnilica intends to conduct research and provide interventions aimed at improving student experiences and outcomes. A primary aim is to get local public schools to increase the time students spend learning outdoors. She holds a Tennessee license in school social work and enjoys working with youth and young adult student populations. When not in school, Becky spends time adventuring with her three sons.

Education

• BA, Christian Brothers University, 1996
• MSSW, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2018
• PhD, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2021

Research Interests

• Improving the K-12 public school experience
• Outdoor learning experiences and outdoor classrooms
• Nature as medicine
• The influence of outdoor exposure on epigenetics and neural function