As a Kilimanjaro Safari Guide and Conservation Educator, she led thousands of guests through the park, teaching them about wildlife and environmental conservation while navigating unpredictable animals and even more unpredictable humans. She learned how to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and keep a group comfortable even when things did not go exactly as planned. Yes, she has stories. Yes, there is an elephant story. And yes, you should absolutely ask her about it.

Originally from just outside New Orleans, Adriana brings a little Louisiana warmth to the Triangle. She lived through Hurricane Katrina, an experience that shaped her resilience and deep appreciation for community. She is a Saints fan, a proud Mardi Gras enthusiast, and has already taken it upon herself to educate the office on the proper history and eating techniques of King Cake.

She and her husband moved to North Carolina in search of seasons. The North (where her husband is from) was too cold. Louisiana and Florida were too hot. North Carolina, she says, is just right.

Over the years, Adriana has worn a lot of hats. In addition to Animal Kingdom, she worked as an Aquatic Facility Operator, where detailed documentation and safety standards were non-negotiable, and as a substitute teacher, stepping into classrooms and adapting to whatever the day required. Through it all, one thing remained constant: she enjoys serving people and making sure things run well.

As TSD’s Administrative Assistant, Adriana is often the first friendly face you will see or voice you will hear. She loves interacting with people and creating a welcoming environment, especially for Clients walking in during stressful moments. She describes herself as an organizer, but more than that, she is someone who likes making sure everyone around her feels supported and taken care of.

Outside the office, Adriana is getting into pickleball, loves diamond painting, and shares her home with two cats who have very literary names: Banquo, from Macbeth, and Lorelai, from Gilmore Girls. She will happily explain both references if you ask.

Adriana is excited to be part of a Team where coworkers genuinely care about one another and where helping people is not just part of the job description, but part of the culture. And she’s ready to make sure every Client who walks through the door feels that difference.