A native Kansan with Okie roots, Kate Hoppe's early encounter with worm composting solidified a passion for environmental health work. She has contributed to the efforts of environmental and social organizations for over 15 years - including managing pr for Backpacker magazine's Get Out More tour, leading at-risk youth in service learning programs, and working on farms in the U.S. and abroad. Kate is currently employed in health research and is a part-time Master of Public Health student at the University of Kansas Medical Center.