Shanique Alladen

Shanique, hailing from New Paltz but born in Jamaica, holds dear memories from her childhood spent amidst the natural splendor of woods, orchards and the small streams that run through them, fostering her deep reverence for the environment. Growing up, she relished summers filled with outdoor play, farm gatherings with loved ones, and the rhythmic pulse of music—a cultural tapestry that fuels her passion for communal farm spaces, particularly for black communities. With a background in Biology from Bard College, Shanique's journey led her to delve into the rich biodiversity of native plants in the Northeast during her tenure at the Catskill Native Nursery. Though she has experienced farming firsthand, it's the sense of community it fosters that truly resonates with her. Presently, her intellectual curiosity is captivated by the intricacies of speciation and nature's remarkable adaptability in the face of ecological challenges. She also, loves doing environmental education with young children. Seeing a child confront their fears of touching an eel, or frog makes her day. In her free time, Shanique finds solace basking in the sun with her feet dipped in water, akin to a rooted plant. Dystopian books and hiking local peak also occupy her free time. While she cherishes time with loved ones, her heart finds its deepest solace in the embrace of nature.