Dr. Niemiec is an associate professor in the Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Department and co-director of the Animal Human Policy Center, a policy research think tank at Colorado State University. She has served as the manager of the Bureau of Animal Protection for the state of Colorado, where she and her team addressed domestic animal mistreatment throughout the state. She also serves on Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, a citizen board appointed by the Governor to set policies and regulations for Colorado’s state parks, wildlife programs, and outdoor recreation activities. She has authored over 40 peer-reviewed scientific publications and has led stakeholder processes and conducted social science research focused on the human dimensions of conservation and animal protection. Dr. Niemiec has a PhD in Environment and Resources from Stanford University and B.A. in Ecology and Environmental Studies from Dartmouth College.