Metamorphosis of a Monarch

Lorena Dorado-Robles

Lorena Dorado-Robles is the Iowa 4-H Recruitment, Retention and Engagement State Specialist, specifically working with diverse and untapped audiences. She is doing state-level work in the areas of College and Career Readiness, while improving ways to specifically impact volunteer development and management with new audiences through Iowa 4-H programs.

Lorena was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, and moved to the US with her family when she was fifteen years old. She struggled as an undocumented resident during her high school years, losing hope in the vision to better her life with an advanced postsecondary education. After a series of life lessons, she graduated from Buena Vista University with a BA in Human Services and a minor in Psychology. She started her Extension/4-H career ten years ago, and she continues to find joy and learning experiences every year and continues to impact Iowa communities through her professional life.

Lorena believes that the essence of humanity is storytelling. The power of our stories is what shapes our societies. Becoming an Open Book allows her to share her personal story and create connections with those that are willing to listen. The “Metamorphosis of a Monarch” is a personal philosophy of life for her. Monarch butterflies go through four stages during one life cycle and through four generations in one year. Lorena believes that as human beings we also transform as we go through the seasons and life cycles, just like monarchs. Her story is shaped around her cultural roots, ancestral wisdom, life lessons, moments of transformation, personal observation, and a journey to an unknown future.

“Outside of my professional life, I describe myself as a joyful, vulnerable, and realistic being. I enjoy outdoor activities that connect me with nature. I find joy in cooking because it takes me back to my cultural roots and helps me connect with my ancestors by bringing their wisdom through my cooking skills. Painting, drawing, crafting, singing, and creative journaling fulfill me and help me better understand myself and those that are part of my life journey.”  

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You Can Be Both

Lindsey Page

Lindsey Page was born and raised in Central Iowa on a llama farm where she fostered a love for the land and all of its inhabitants at an early age. At Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny, Iowa, she studied music education, and during her last semester, an environmental science class turned her world upside down in the best way possible. After changing career paths, Lindsey attended Iowa State University where she earned a degree in forestry, minoring in animal ecology and focusing on interpretation of natural resources. Three words she uses to describe herself: naturalist, feminist, and optimist. She is currently part of the environmental education team at Polk County Conservation where she teaches a variety of audiences all about nature. Outside of her professional career, Lindsey is an avid music lover, proud Disney adult, cat and dog mom, national park superfan, amateur gamer, and thrift store enthusiast.

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