Photo by Frank Staub

Meet Our Staff

Mireya Ballesteros, Spring 2025 Desert Wildlife Intern

PronounsShe, Her, Hers

Being born and raised in Arizona, I have always been deeply aware of the challenges and opportunities presented by the desert environment. The ideas of sustainability, water preservation, and mindful landscape design have been at the core of my interests from an early age. Growing up in both Tucson and Phoenix, I witnessed firsthand the impact of extreme heat, drought, and environmental degradation on communities, especially those without the resources to combat these challenges. These experiences strengthened my resolve to address environmental injustices through thoughtful and equitable design solutions.

Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture at the University of Arizona, with minors in Environmental Science and Spanish. My interdisciplinary education has allowed me to approach environmental and urban challenges from multiple perspectives, integrating scientific analysis, creative problem solving, and cultural awareness. I am particularly interested in the intersection of ecological restoration, urban resilience, and environmental justice, aiming to create landscapes that not only beautify spaces but also serve as functional, sustainable solutions for vulnerable communities.

In the future, I aspire to use my skills in landscape architecture, sustainability, and urban planning to advocate for and design spaces that empower marginalized communities facing environmental hardships. By integrating ecological restoration, water efficient landscapes, and community centered design, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and resilient future for all.

Thank you to the University of Arizona’s UA RISE internship program for funding Mireya’s internship!