Peter H. Raven, one of the world's leading botanists, has dedicated more than three decades to conservation and biodiversity as Director of the Missouri botanical Garden in St. Louis, where he has cultivated a world-class institution of horticultural display, education, and research. Described by TIME magazine as "Hero for the Planet," Dr. Raven champions research around the world to preserve endangered species and is a leading advocate for conservation and sustainable environment.

Dr. Raven is Chair of the National Geographic Society's Committee for research and Exploration, Chair of the Division of Earth and Life Studies  of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. he is the Recipient of numerous prizes and awards, including the prestigious National Medal of Science in 2001, the highest award for scientific accomplishments in this country, Japan's International Prize for Biology, the Environmental Prize of the Institute de la Vie, the Volvo Environment Prize, the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, and the Sasakawa Environment Prize. He also has held Guggenheim and MacArthur fellowships.

Dr.Raven received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles, after completing his undergraduate work at the University of California, Berkeley.

Linda R. Berg is an award-winning teacher and textbook author. She received a B.S. in science education, M./S. in botany, and Ph.D. in plant physiology from the University of Maryland. her research focused on the evolutionary implications of steroid biosynthetic pathways in various organisms. Her recent interests involve the Florida Everglades.

Dr. Berg taught at the University of Maryland-College Park, for 17 years, and is presently an Adjunct Professor at St. Petersburg College in Florida. She has taught introductory courses in environmental science, biology, and botany to thousands of students. At the University of Maryland, she received numerous teaching and service awards. Dr. Berg is also the recipient of many national and regional awards, including the National science Teachers Association Award for Innovations in College Teaching, the Nation's Capital Area Disabled Student Services Award, and the Washington Academy of Science Award in University Science Teaching.

During her career a a professional science writer, Dr. Berg has authored or coauthored several leading college science textbooks. Her writing reflects her teaching style and love of science.