A Virginia resident since graduating from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana, Tracey Baroody was named Director of Education for Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy in August of 2025. Her deep connection with the natural world was fostered by the woodland playgrounds of her childhood and was strengthened by the land stewardship values instilled during college.

In 2016, her move to Loudoun County coincided with a new opportunity in her career as an educator: starting the STEM program at the elementary school where she already served as the Advanced Academics Resource Teacher. In these dual roles, Tracey guided students as they determined the best site for a native habitat garden and researched and planned the design of paths and plants. This space continues to be a working garden for all students in the after-school Eco Club and for teachers to use directly in their own integrated curriculum lessons.

Tracey is a powerful advocate for Nature-Based Learning (NBE). Why Nature-Based Learning? “Research indicates that when we pay attention to nature, we are physically, emotionally, and socially healthier,” Tracey says. “All these qualities help broaden our perspective and lead us to love the world. And the world needs more people to be in love with it!”

When not immersed in all things teaching/learning, Tracey can be found working in her medicinal herb garden or playing with her grandchildren. Her connection with the founding order of the college remains a strong thread as a Providence Associate member. She’s eager to bring her educational program development experience to the incredible expertise that already exists within Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy.

Contact Tracey at tbaroody@loudounwildlife.org.