Carlie Johnson ’26: Conservationist & Enthusiastic Volunteer

Carlie Johnson ’26 is a Biology-Environmental Studies major from Sturgis, South Dakota. Through hands-on research and immersive learning experiences, Carlie explored her passion for conservation at Whitman College while building the skills and perspective she’ll carry into her future work protecting the environment.

Carlie’s Whitman Highlights:

• Entertainer Chair for Whitman’s Renaissance Faire
• Student Volunteer Leader for the Career and Community Engagement Center 
• Semester in the West alum 

Carlie gained hands-on experience through internships and field research that inspired her future goals. Through the Whitman Internship Grant, she worked as a biotech intern with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and also did undergraduate research at the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge. These experiences were the foundation of her senior thesis and solidified her passion for ecology research and conservation.

Through volunteer programs like Stream Team, Buddy Program, Friends Rock and the Food Justice Project, Carlie became deeply involved in our local community. As a student volunteer leader, she helped connect Whitman students with meaningful volunteer opportunities throughout Walla Walla.

One of the most impactful parts of Carlie’s Whitman experience was Semester in the West, where she traveled across the Western U.S., connecting with scientists, landowners and naturalists while gaining a deeper understanding of environmental issues and her responsibility within them.

What’s next? Carlie plans to travel and work immediately after graduation before pursuing graduate school and a future career in conservation ecology.