Meet Alexandra
I’ve been fascinated by the natural world since I can remember. As a botanist and naturalist, I have been able to learn more about God’s incredible creation. As an educator, I have been able to share that knowledge with others. As a photographer, I have been able to share the beauty in nature with others in a more tangible form.
My formal background includes earning a B.S. in Biology from Duke University and an M.A. in Botany from The University of Texas at Austin. When I was growing up in Greensboro, NC my family often vacationed in the Asheville, NC area. I dreamed of living here one day and finally had the opportunity in 2004. After my family and I moved to Asheville, I found a way to learn more about the natural world here in the mountains through the Blue Ridge Naturalist Program. I was a member of the first graduating class of certified Blue Ridge Naturalists and now teach botany and plant identification courses for the program as well as for the Blue Ridge Eco-Gardener Program.
When I lived in Austin I managed the UTEX Culture Collection of Algae at UT Austin. I also volunteered with the youth education programs at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and developed exhibits for the visitors center. In Asheville I’ve volunteered with The North Carolina Arboretum, particularly with the Wee Naturalist and school programs. I’ve also led nature hikes for a variety of groups in the area, including Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, the Biltmore Lake community, and various church groups. One of my favorite places to lead hikes is Snowbird Mountain Lodge. Another highlight of each year is leading hikes as part of the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Alexandra Holland
Botanist, Naturalist, and Nature Photographer
