Goodall Visiting Fellow in Environmental Studies Talk

This talk and poetry reading explores the intersection of prairie ecosystems, personal healing, and ecological relationships through the lens of plant-human connections in eastern Kansas. Drawing from experiences as a gardener and herbalist, Kaminski weaves together discussions of native plants, disability, and neurodivergence to illuminate how developing deep relationships with the natural world can transform trauma and foster belonging. The presentation combines personal narrative, poetry, and environmental philosophy to examine how plant relationships offer new models of vulnerability, care, and grace.