Erika Hood

Erika Hood is a visionary leader in creating inclusive, impactful programs that bridge community engagement, public health, and youth empowerment. With a Master's in Education focusing on Adult Learning and Development from Cleveland State University, Erika brings a unique blend of academic insight and practical experience to Syatt's mission.

Key areas of expertise:

• Leading strategic engagement and advocacy efforts that connect communities, elevate youth voices, and drive systems-level change.
• Designing culturally relevant youth leadership programs that foster environmental stewardship
• Developing place-based strategies to enhance cultural awareness and inclusion in educational settings
• Cultivating partnerships with community leaders to address health disparities and promote outdoor engagement
• Implementing innovative research methodologies to inform equity-focused policies and practices
• Facilitating cross-sector collaborations that amplify diverse voices in environmental and educational initiatives

Erika's approach to community engagement creates powerful connections between academic research, public health outcomes, and real-world application. Her work consistently demonstrates how access to nature and outdoor experiences can be transformative for youth, particularly those from underrepresented communities.