You have probably spotted Phelicia Jozwiak out on the trails or leading a program at Heller Nature Center. Take a moment to get to know Phelicia, our Nature Program Coordinator-Teacher, and learn what inspires her passion for the outdoors.

Where did you grow up, and what brought you to the Park District of Highland Park?

I grew up in Elkhart, Indiana, a small town about 2.5 hours east of Highland Park. After college, I headed back to Elkhart and spent a little over five years as a naturalist with the county parks. Eventually, I moved to Detroit to finish grad school, then joined the University of Michigan’s Student Life Sustainability team. There, I got to collaborate with students, faculty, and staff on making campus life a little greener. I left that position to move closer to my family, including my parents, who now live in the Chicago suburbs too!

Do you have a favorite outdoor memory or experience as a kid that shaped your love for nature? What do you love most about working in nature?

I don’t have one specific memory that sparked my love for nature, it’s more like a collection of moments spent outside with my grandparents growing up. In the summers, I’d visit my dad’s parents in Chicago, where their city-sized backyard overflowed with plants. My grandma always let me dig in the dirt and help with her garden, and I loved every second of it. Back home in Elkhart, my mom’s parents lived just down the road. I visited almost every day after school, exploring the property, half of which was left undeveloped, full of the perfect climbing trees and what felt like a million lightning bugs in the summer. 

What I love most about working in nature is the sense of connection it brings to the land, to the seasons, etc. I especially enjoy finding and sharing moments of nature in places where people might not expect them, like dense cities or suburban green spaces.

What is a fun fact about you that might surprise people?

I’m an ordained minister. It started as an inside joke with friends, but word got out, and I have performed three weddings so far. 

What is your favorite thing about Heller and what do you wish more people knew about it?

I love the sense of pride and connection from the Heller regulars! With that, I wish more people in the community knew what a gem the property is, not just for the great programs, but for all of the self-guided adventures it offers! 

When you are not out exploring nature, how do you like to spend your free time?

I love exploring nature outside of work, but I also enjoy indoor activities like reading, watching movies, going to concerts, and spending time with friends and family.

If you could be any animal for a day, what would you be and why?

If I could be any animal for a day, I’d probably choose the American beaver. I love to swim, I love trees, and I try to live as sustainably as possible, just like beavers! Exploring a forest, swimming along a river, and creating vital wetland habitats. Sounds like a perfect day!