Founder

Tracy Dawson is a wildlife rehabilitator, educator, and lifelong advocate for animals—especially the ones most people overlook. With over 15 years of experience working in wildlife centers across Ohio, Florida, and California, Tracy has helped care for thousands of injured animals and led public education efforts to shift how people see the wild world around them.

She holds a Bachelor’s in Zoology, a degree in Veterinary Technology, and an MBA, combining hands-on expertise with a strategic approach to conservation education. Most recently, she helped launch a wildlife rehabilitation center in Southern California before hitting the road to visit nature centers and conservation projects across North America.

Now, through Wild and Misunderstood, Tracy is on a mission to replace fear with curiosity and encourage more compassionate, informed coexistence with wild animals.

Design Director

Kimberlee Coffey is an artist, creator, and lifelong animal lover with a passion for bringing stories to life through bold, imaginative design. With a background in clay work, painting, and large-scale murals, Kim brings a distinctive creative voice to Wild and Misunderstood. Her unique style blends whimsy with purpose, helping to visually reframe how people see the wild animals around them.

When she’s not designing for Wild and Misunderstood, Kim works at a public library, where she shares her love of creativity by leading community craft events. Her own home is filled with art supplies and stacks of books—along with her beloved (and slightly spoiled) crew of animals: a dog, several cats, and a growing flock of chickens she’s come to adore.

Kim believes that great design can shift perception, spark empathy, and invite people of all ages to learn more about the misunderstood creatures we share our world with.

Technology Consultant

Joshua Eckroth is a computer scientist, educator, and lifelong nature enthusiast who brings his tech expertise to Wild and Misunderstood. With a Ph.D. in Computer Science and a passion for ethical, accessible technology, Joshua helps design digital tools that support education, outreach, and wildlife advocacy.

When he’s not working on web infrastructure, interactive learning tools, or behind-the-scenes systems, Joshua teaches computer science and explores the intersection of technology and the natural world. His thoughtful approach ensures that Wild and Misunderstood stays grounded in science while reaching people in creative, engaging ways.

Joshua believes that good technology should empower people to learn, connect, and take action—and that it has a vital role to play in changing how we understand and care for wild animals.