Em Hough

My name is Em and I am a Community Organizer for Mountain Watershed Association.

I grew up in Morgantown, WV. My dad owned a whitewater rafting outfitter in Preston County, and I spent a lot of my time on the Cheat River. I was fortunate to live just a short drive from Cooper’s Rock State Forest and enjoyed rock climbing, caving, and hiking. I also enjoy mountain biking, and am an avid downhill skier. Most of my childhood was spent exploring the woods around my house and I developed a deep personal connection to the natural world and mountains. 

I attended West Virginia University, earning a dual degree in English and Sociology with minors in Appalachian Studies and Women & Gender Studies. My creative writing work primarily focused on Appalachia and the harms of extractive industries. While in college, I worked for the West Virginia Dialect Project, a research initiative which seeks to document the regional dialect spoken in the state as well as promote pride in Appalachian English as a whole. I was also privileged to have the opportunity to present original research at the Appalachian Studies Association’s annual conference in 2018.

After graduation, I served as an AmeriCorps VISTA for The Shack Neighborhood House and eventually moved into a program manager role, working on projects such as an ESL class, food pantry, and early childhood intervention programs. My work focused on empowering community members and families. I also volunteered for the Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia, rehabbing injured native birds such as owls, kestrels, and songbirds. I continue to participate in fieldwork to study the timber rattlesnake population in Monongalia and Preston Counties. In 2020, I moved to Pittsburgh to work as a Supports Coordinator for individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and/or autism. 

My work is informed by profound love for the people of Appalachia and the beautiful mountains and rivers that we coexist with. I am guided by a strong sense of justice and the belief that we are more powerful together! I’m honored to be a part of Mountain Watershed Association and can’t wait to meet you!