Kerianne Gwinnell

Kerianne is passionate about connecting people with the natural world. With extensive experience in environmental education, she inspires awe, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for wildlife in people of all ages.

As Director, Kerianne oversees Chewonki’s Wildlife Center, a unique home for animal ambassadors ranging from raptors and reptiles to marine life in a saltwater touch tank. She also leads Chewonki’s Traveling Natural History Programs, bringing engaging wildlife experiences to communities across Maine.

Maine Coast Semester students connect with the Wildlife Center through hands-on, immersive experiences. Working alongside the experienced Wildlife Center team, students help care for resident animals while gaining real-world experience in animal management, nutrition, and habitat maintenance.

Before joining Chewonki, Kerianne worked as an educator, counselor, and eventually director at a Clemson University marine science camp. She later developed and led camp programming in Massachusetts and worked as a marine science educator at Herring Gut Coastal Science Center in Maine.

In her free time, Kerianne enjoys birding, tide-pooling, and exploring Maine with her family.