Emily Conway
Emily Conway
Class Year
’19
Major(s)
English
Current Position
Environmental Educator and Program Leader at McHenry County Conservation District
Emily Conway graduated from Carthage in 2019 with a degree in English, lots of amazing memories, and a multitude of skills and knowledge. The women’s and gender studies classes that she took shaped her leadership, confidence, theory and analysis, and understanding of the diverse realities that individuals face based on their differences.
Ms. Conway was awarded the Judith Schaumberg Award for Excellence in Women’s and Gender Studies. She credits Professors Ellen Hauser, Danielle Geary, and Maria Morales for helping her tremendously through her time at Carthage. Each of these professors provided unique support for Ms. Conway, including believing in her abilities, connecting her English major to the women’s and gender studies field, and helping her develop confidence and leadership skills which she shares with her students in her daily life.
As an educator, Ms. Conway shares these skills and supports her students as she was supported at Carthage. She gets to share her passion about environmental education through writing and delivering curricula to students of all ages.
Ms. Conway will soon be moving to Atlanta, Georgia to further pursue her career in environmental communication.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I believe that our greatest environmental need at the moment is connection. Helping my students make memories, grow closer to nature, and make the connection to their role in the environment is really rewarding for me.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“Carthage taught me to trust in my skills and abilities, to seek out new opportunities for growth, and to take a leap when those opportunities present themselves. This week I will be moving to Atlanta, Georgia to further pursue my career in environmental communication. Atlanta is the metro area with the greatest urban canopy coverage, but urban development is pushing out green spaces. As a result, there are growing opportunities within Atlanta’s environmental nonprofits, and I am excited to be a part of it.”
How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?
“Critical thinking and teamwork have been essential in my career. In education and communication, I have found that flexibility and understanding are crucial in reaching all of my students. Working with a team of educators requires excellent teamwork and communication to make sure that we are delivering unified information across different teaching styles, and that our strengths are all being served. This is one of my favorite parts of working with a team!”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“Being involved in Pi Theta and Lambda Kappa really shaped my four years. I was so lucky to be surrounded by strong leaders and wonderful friends.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“At the risk of sounding like Tony Robbins, take full advantage of every opportunity you are given, and then seek out more. Your goals aren’t too big. Don’t listen to people who laugh or call you cute when you share your aspirations. You are capable. Your risks will pay off. Read more books. If you fall down, you will get back up.”