Liana grew up spending time between the rolling hills of the Bay Area and the rainforests of Hawaii, which fostered a deep love of wild places. Dreams of mountains and snow brought Liana to the University of Vermont for her undergraduate career, where she studied Plant Biology and Natural Resource Ecology with a particular focus on pollinator ecology and economics. After graduating, Liana returned to California and pursued a graduate degree in Science Illustration from CSU Monterey Bay, later working as a freelance science illustrator and designer for clients such as Denali National Park, Wild Montana, and Stanford University. Liana brings this variety of experience to Placer RCD, as well as her passion for science communication, people, and conservation. In her spare time, you can find her backpacking or skiing in the Sierras, working in her garden, and making elaborate meals.