Erica Lisowe

Co-Director of the Youth Garden Education Program, Knox County Community Gardens and Growers’ Alliance

Urban Ag Fireside Chats, Friday, December 6th, 9:00 AM, Classroom 305

Erica’s favorite pastime as a young child was creating a “garden” wherever she was, out of whatever materials she could find. Now she is in the business of creating gardens, and she couldn’t be more thrilled.

Originally from Raleigh, NC, Erica studied Biological Engineering at NC State University. Wanting more hands-on experience, Erica worked on an urban farm, where she learned the basics of market gardening while also studying permaculture design. A service-learning fellowship showed her the power of community action, and her purpose in playing a part in the ecosystem of needs. Today, she aims to serve communities by working with people, learning more every step of the way.

She served two terms in AmeriCorps as a School Garden Manager & Educator, which brought her to Knoxville in 2021. Here she realized her passion for sharing her love of teaching while growing food and supporting native resilience. Erica joined the Knox County Community Gardens and Growers’ Alliance in 2023 as a Co-Director of the Youth Garden Education Program and is proud to be playing a part in addressing community needs with the Alliance.

Urban Ag Fireside Chats, Friday, December 6th, 9:00 AM, Classroom 305