Raja Klingele, originally from Kansas City, Missouri, moved to Utah in December 2023. She holds a B.S. in Park Management and Conservation, a B.A. in Modern Languages with a concentration in Spanish, and a secondary major in Natural Resources and Environmental Science from Kansas State University. During her time at KSU, Raja spent a lot of time in the native tallgrass prairie of the Flint Hills, where she engaged in ecological fieldwork, participated in controlled burns, banded grassland birds, and led interpretive tours. These experiences fostered a deep appreciation for the region's unique ecosystem and fueled her passion for conservation and interpretation. 

While a student, Raja worked as an Education Specialist and Program Assistant at a zoo in Manhattan, Kansas. In this role, she particularly enjoyed beekeeping and using a portable beehive to educate others on pollinator conservation. She also led outreach programs featuring ambassador animals, engaging children, adults, elders, and individuals of all ages with physical and mental impairments. This experience sparked her passion for environmental education and sharing her love of the environment with others, especially those from underrepresented groups and diverse backgrounds. Raja is dedicated to raising awareness about wildlife and is committed to inspiring people to protect and appreciate the natural world.

In her free time, Raja enjoys immersing herself in nature through birding, bird banding, camping, and doing other recreational activities. She loves exploring new trails in Utah's national parks, taking her Border Collie on walks, and spending time with her church community during board game nights. As a dedicated sports fan, she never misses a chance to cheer on her favorite football teams, the Kansas State Wildcats and the Kansas City Chiefs.