A passion for the natural world began early for Kira King. She grew up in an 1800s log cabin in the forests of Indiana. Kira spent her childhood exploring the land and testing water samples from the pond near her home. These early experiences sparked a lifelong love for science and a mission to inspire others to care for all living things.
With over 10 years of experience in environmental education, program management, and animal care, Kira’s journey has been diverse. She earned her Master’s Degree in Zoology and worked with renowned organizations like Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Newport Aquarium, Great Parks, and Ohio River Foundation. At Ohio River Foundation, Kira developed and led education programs and pioneered the nation’s first “Mussels in the Classroom” outreach program. As a result of her efforts, she earned the organization’s Leadership Award.
After moving to North Carolina, Kira continued her work in environmental education. She worked as a STEM Educator with Asheville Museum of Science and volunteered with Waterfall Keepers of North Carolina. As Muddy Sneakers’s Program Reservationist & Administrator, Kira plays a key role in supporting our outdoor education programs.
Although Kira knows she’s still far from her childhood goal of encouraging every person to love every living thing, she believes that educating the next generation is the most powerful step toward that vision. She feels grateful to be part of Muddy Sneakers and the impact the organization makes.
Presently, Kira lives in Asheville with her husband, Roy, and her cats, Avett and Freddie Purrcury. She embraces life in the mountains, spending as much time as possible immersed in the natural beauty of North Carolina.
