Mallory McDuff, Ph.D.

My Story

I discovered the field of Environmental Education as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Central African Republic, where I saw the critical importance of integrating local communities in conservation. Growing up in Fairhope, Alabama, I’d watched my parents connect their spiritual beliefs to environmental stewardship by actions such as giving up driving and even trash for Lent. I’m the author of four books examining the intersection of spirituality and the climate crisis: Natural Saints (OUP, 2010), Sacred Acts (New Society Press, 2012), Our Last Best Act: Planning for the End of Our Lives to Protect the People and Places We Love (Broadleaf Books, 2021), and Love Your Mother: 50 States, 50 Stories, and 50 Women United for Climate Justice (Broadleaf Books, 2023).  I’ve also co-authored a book for practitioners Conservation Education and Outreach Techniques (OUP, 2015).

I’ve written more than 50 essays for the New York Times, Washington Post, WIRED, Newsweek, and more. Much of my writing draws on my life at Warren Wilson College, where I live with my two daughters in a 900-square foot rental. I love inviting students in my courses to my home with its expansive view of pastures and mountains. In my classes, students collaborate with diverse community partners—from youth to senior citizens—to teach and learn together using the forests, farms, and fields of the campus.