Each year the Director of the Natural Lands chooses several students to be the college Student Naturalists. Student Naturalists are responsible for the following:
-Attending formal training events each week to learn about Minnesota’s natural history
-Design, organize, and carry out a year-long project connecting the public to the Natural Lands and natural history
-Organizing and leading field trips for various St. Olaf and community groups
-Creating environment educational opportunities for the community.
-Maintaining a social media presence to interest and engage the St. Olaf and Northfield communities
If you are interested in working as a Student Naturalist, check the St. Olaf student employment job board for open positions. We typically hire for the upcoming school year late in the spring and openings are usually posted at the beginning of Spring semester.
- Visit our Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stolafnaturallands/
- Visit our Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/stolafnaturallands/
The Student Naturalists for the 2025-2026 year are: Lilly Pihart (’26), Sylvia Sandhorst (’27), Abby Sikora, and Kiran Tator (’27).
Lilly Pihart (she/her): I am a sophomore double major in studio art and environmental studies from Hopkins, Minnesota. I’ve always had a passion for environmental conservation and the great outdoors, and I love blending nature into my artwork. I consider myself a dedicated plant enthusiast and devoted plant parent who finds joy in nurturing my plants and garden. Beyond that, I thrive on outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, stargazing, and immersing myself in the captivating world of wildlife. I’ve been lucky to have a family that shares my passion for adventure, and we’ve been exploring National and State Parks for as long as I can remember. I look forward to working in the Natural Lands this year and am excited to meet some new people!
Hi there! My name is Sylvia and I’m a sophomore. When I’m not at St. Olaf, I’m probably in Decorah, IA or anywhere with a body of water or a tree 🙂 I grew up exploring the Driftless region, and many other places, with my family, which has inspired in me a love of getting to know new places. I spent a bunch of time wandering around in the natural lands last year, and I’m excited to do some more serious exploring this year! I love listening to music (especially The Wailin’ Jennys, Brandi Carlile, James Taylor, and the Okee Dokee Brothers), reading, going on walks, Chacos, identifying cars, singing camp songs, and watching women’s sports. I’m super excited to share my love for the natty lands with all of you this year!!
Kiran Tator (she/they)
Kiran Tator (she/they): Hey there! I’m a junior from California studying studio art and environmental studies, and I’m incredibly passionate about the intersection of the two. I’ve always loved camping, hiking, and backpacking. The Natural Lands are by far my favorite thing about St. Olaf; I am a Heath Creek regular. I’m looking forward to bringing Oles closer to nature. I care a lot about helping others discover the intricate beauty of the natural world and to take time to find the details we often overlook. My drive to protect the environment stems from this passion. I want to learn as much as I can and I’m enthusiastic to share what I find out with all of you this year!
For more information on the Student Naturalist position at St. Olaf College, contact Director of Natural Lands Charles Umbanhowar (ceumb@stolaf.edu).
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