Alex Krowiak

A childhood surrounded by the woods and streams of Pennsylvania initially sparked Alex’s curiosity about nature. That curiosity eventually led him to pursue degrees in biology and environmental studies at Boston College. During his time there he conducted research on carnivorous plants in Iceland and kelp forests in South Africa. Together these diverse experiences provided him with the background and passion to become a teacher. 

After college Alex moved to Catalina Island, 26 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, to teach middle school and high school students about the marine biodiversity of Southern California. He took his students kayaking, snorkeling, and on hiking expeditions as a way to bring the classroom outdoors.  

Catalina Island also offered opportunities for Alex to tell stories through photography. Drawing upon his experience as the photo editor of a student publication at Boston College, he produced multiple photo essays for the New York Times. Topics he covered included: the community’s response to a record-breaking drought, the success of the island’s network of marine protected areas, and the herd of introduced bison that call Catalina home.

Alex splits his time between the East and West Coast. When he isn’t out on expeditions, he works as a photography guide on student trips and as a freelance photographer. His personal projects generally incorporate his background as a naturalist and focus on the changing relationship between people and nature.