Nichelle Wentz

Nichelle is a horticulture student at Southwestern College, and horticultural therapy intern whose path to this work began with a pandemic garden. A conversation with a friend introduced her to horticultural therapy, a professionally guided practice supporting emotional, physical, cognitive, and social wellbeing through plant and nature-based activities, and she knew it was the direction she wanted to pursue. Having completed her horticultural therapy and human science coursework, she's now focused on the horticulture classes and internship required for certification. With a background in project management and commitment to community service, she's working toward building accessible therapeutic garden programs for all, with a focus on seniors, caregivers, and veterans.