Lannis Smith
Lannis Smith has been a part of the team since 2015. Ever since she could walk, Lannis has been walking through the wilderness. A Michigan native, she received her bachelor’s degree in Biology at Albion College, and earned her Master’s in Environmental Science at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Lannis has been teaching audiences of all ages about the natural world for over a decade, and every hobby she has involves being outdoors. When she's not teaching with one of our wildlife co-workers, Lannis backpacks, kayaks, and is an equestrian, riding horses for over 27 years!
Ally Ross
Ally Ross joined the Unity in Learning team as a Program Manager in 2024. With over a decade of experience working with kids outdoors, Ally is excited to have the continued opportunity to introduce folks of all ages to the beauty of nature in the Black Pond Woods and the wonders of science in the museum labs. When not leading science experiments or out on the trails with students, Ally enjoys canoeing, mountain biking, and going wherever her two dogs, Caesar and Gaia, lead her.
Emily Venner
Emily Venner joined the AAHOM and LSNC team in 2024. She also teaches Art History and Visual Culture classes at Wayne State University. Emily has a passion for lifelong learning, curiosity, and creativity. When not at the museum, the nature center, or in the classroom she likes to read, camp, crochet, and hangout with her cats Ricco, Bonnie, and Cardamom.