Loretta Lyken is the Program Coordinator for Canopy for Kids at Arizona State University’s College of Global Futures, where she advances sustainability in education by supporting schools and communities in building climate resilience through urban forestry and equitable access to green space. Her work centers on leveraging nature-based solutions to address urban heat, strengthen ecological literacy, and create pathways for youth engagement in sustainability.
Prior to joining ASU, Loretta was an elementary educator. Through her leadership, she built partnerships with schools and community organizations to integrate environmental stewardship, food education, and cultural storytelling into the classroom.
Loretta is passionate about the intersection of education, environment, and equity. Her approach is rooted in experiential learning helping children see themselves as part of living systems and understand how climate, food, and community are interdependent. She believes that fostering curiosity, compassion, and creativity in young learners is key to building a more sustainable and connected future.
Beyond her current role, Loretta’s interests extend to the cultural dimensions of food and sustainability exploring how culinary traditions, agriculture, and ecology shape identity and community. She continues to engage in projects that highlight closed-loop food systems and regenerative practices as tools for environmental and social resilience.