Growing Up Outdoors
Jody Ullmann has always felt most at home under open skies, surrounded by nature. Growing up in Minnesota, she spent her childhood camping and canoeing the state’s serene lakes, fostering an early love for the natural world. Her childhood dream? To become a National Park Service Ranger. That dream sparked what would become a lifelong journey in environmental education and wildlife advocacy—a journey recently recognized with the 2024 Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award, presented by Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation.
A Career Launched in the Wild
After earning degrees in both Biology and Theater, Jody found her unique blend of science and storytelling gave her an edge in environmental education. Her professional journey began at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, where she worked as an informal outdoor educator. This first role marked the beginning of a dynamic, cross-country career helping people of all ages engage meaningfully with the environment.
During a pivotal chapter in Hawaii, Jody took a sailing class that quickly turned into a passion. She joined the Wahine Sailors, a group of women who volunteered as crew on larger sailing vessels in Honolulu—a community that strengthened her connection to the ocean and the power of collaborative learning.
A Career Launched in the Wild
After earning degrees in both Biology and Theater, Jody found her unique blend of science and storytelling gave her an edge in environmental education. Her professional journey began at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, where she worked as an informal outdoor educator. This first role marked the beginning of a dynamic, cross-country career helping people of all ages engage meaningfully with the environment.
During a pivotal chapter in Hawaii, Jody took a sailing class that quickly turned into a passion. She joined the Wahine Sailors, a group of women who volunteered as crew on larger sailing vessels in Honolulu—a community that strengthened her connection to the ocean and the power of collaborative learning.
Making a Lasting Impact in Virginia
Jody’s path eventually led her to Virginia, where her influence only grew. She brought her talents to a number of beloved institutions, including The Mariner’s Museum and the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Later, she joined the Virginia Living Museum (VLM), where she spent 15 years curating and caring for the museum’s non-living collections.
She played an important role in the museum’s expansion in 2004, helping relocate collections to the upper level of the Wason Education Center. One of her favorite projects was curating an exhibit on horseshoe crabs and sea urchins—unsung heroes in the world of medicine.
Horseshoe Crabs and Sea Urchins: Nature’s Hidden Healers
Jody’s exhibit highlighted the critical role of these ancient animals in modern science and medicine. Horseshoe crab blood contains Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL), a substance so sensitive to bacterial toxins that it has become the gold standard for testing the safety of vaccines, IV medications, and surgical implants.
But it’s not just the blood—the material that makes up a horseshoe crab’s shell, called chitin, is also valuable in medicine. Chitin is used in the production of biodegradable sutures, wound dressings, and even as a base for drug delivery systems. It has antimicrobial properties and promotes healing, making it an essential biomaterial in the field of regenerative medicine.
Sea urchins, too, contribute significantly to medical science. Their embryos are used in studies of cell development and gene regulation, while their unique immune systems have helped researchers better understand cancer biology and potential therapies.
Through exhibits like this, Jody has translated complex scientific knowledge into accessible, engaging stories—empowering the public to see the interconnectedness between wildlife and human health.
A Leader in Environmental Education
Ever faithful to her calling—“I’m an educator first and foremost”—Jody brought her passion to Lynnhaven River NOW, where she became the Education Coordinator. There, she developed and led innovative environmental programs for ages pre-K through college. Her work was recognized in 2017 when she was named Environmental Educator of the Year by the Virginia Garden Clubs.
Jody went on to create award-winning programs with national and international acclaim, continuing to center education, engagement, and environmental stewardship in every endeavor.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Jody’s commitment to education extends beyond the classroom and into mentorship. As a certified Virginia Master Naturalist, she co-founded a Junior Master Naturalist Program alongside a fellow volunteer. For four years, they trained teen leaders in both naturalist skills and teaching strategies. These teens, in turn, mentored children aged 8–12, creating a ripple effect of environmental awareness, leadership, and community involvement.
A Well-Earned Honor
On January 26, 2024, at the 15th Annual Winter Wildlife Festival, Jody was presented with the Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award. This peer-nominated honor recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the education and advocacy of local wildlife. Jody received the award alongside Mary Reid Barrow herself and festival organizer Katie Webb—a testament to the enduring impact of her work.
A Legacy in Motion
Jody Ullmann’s journey reminds us that environmental education is not just about science—it’s about storytelling, connection, and cultivating curiosity in others. Whether training future naturalists, curating exhibits, or sailing the waters of Hawaii, she has lived a life deeply rooted in nature and service.
Through her work, Jody has not only educated communities but inspired generations to care for the world around them. And as she continues forward, her legacy is far from complete.
