Amanda Vinson

Amanda spent her childhood years exploring nature on the Gulf Coast of Florida and in the wilderness of rural Alabama. After several semesters of studying journalism during her early college career, a life change interrupted her path and led her academic pursuits back toward her affinity for the natural world. Following an interest in regenerative agriculture, she completed her B.S. in Horticulture at Auburn University with a focus on fruit and vegetable production. During this time, Amanda had opportunities to work locally and internationally in community food systems, aquaponic and hydroponic research, and medicinal plant gardening. Toward the end of her degree program, a chance to support a research project in an entomology lab led her to spend her early professional career as a research assistant and lab manager, supporting entomological research in urban ecology and toxicology. While she is still an insect nerd, Amanda is thrilled to be a part of QCS, as she feels the most at home working in sustainable food systems. Amanda currently resides in Portland Oregon, where she spends time gardening, cooking, reading, creating art, and enjoying the Pacific Northwest via trails and kayaks.