I am just completing my Ph.D. in Environmental, Resource and Developmental Economics from Cornell University (department of Agricultural, Resource and Managerial Economics). Though I studied Neo-classical Economics, the indoctrination failed, and I am a firm believer in the Ecological Economics paradigm. I have a Master's degree in International Affairs from Columbia University, an undergraduate degree in Biology from Grinnell College and considerable experience as a professional carpenter. My extensive travels throughout the Americas and Africa include experiences conducting research on the spiny lobster fishery in Costa Rica, working with community development projects in the rainforests of Belize and Liberia, and conducting research on Amazonian deforestation and teaching English in Brazil.. En route, I learned fluent Portuguese and rusty Spanish.