SFI STAFF
CANADA
Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc.
1306 Wellington Street West, Suite 400
Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B2
Phone: 613-747-2454 Fax: 613-747-2453
UNITED STATES
Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc.
2121 K Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202-596-3450 Fax: 202-596-3451
Kathy Abusow
President and CEO
Kathy Abusow is President and CEO of SFI Inc., a sustainability leader that stands for future forests. She has held this role since 2007, when Sustainable Forestry Initiative® became a fully independent, non-profit organization. Since joining SFI, Kathy has greatly expanded SFI’s network to include the forest sector, brand owners, conservation groups, resource professionals, landowners, educators, local communities, Indigenous peoples, governments, and universities. Read more here.
Kathy Abusow est présidente-directrice générale de la société SFI, un chef de file du développement durable qui soutient les forêts de l’avenir. Elle occupe ce poste depuis 2007, lorsque la Sustainable Forestry Initiative® est devenue un organisme sans but lucratif pleinement indépendant. Depuis lors, elle a considérablement élargi le réseau de SFI pour y inclure le secteur forestier, les propriétaires de marques, les groupes de conservation, les spécialistes des ressources naturelles, les propriétaires fonciers, les éducateurs, les collectivités locales, les Autochtones, les gouvernements et les universités. Lire la suite ici
Kathy Abusow
President & CEO
SFI SUSTAINABILITY, DEI AND INDIGENOUS RELATIONS
Bettina Ring
Chief Sustainability and Diversity Officer
202-982-1811
Bettina.Ring@forests.org
Bettina provides leadership internally and externally on strategic initiatives related to sustainability and diversity. She leverages SFI’s scale to drive meaningful change in the forest and conservation sector through collaboration with SFI’s network. Bettina works with SFI-certified organizations, customers, investors, and government agencies interested in partnering with SFI to address material environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. Bettina is passionate about and experienced at advancing sustainability through forest-focused collaboration, which is SFI’s mission. Prior to joining SFI, Bettina served as Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia. She also served as Virginia’s State Forester. Bettina was the first woman appointed to both positions. Bettina holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry and Wildlife from Virginia Tech and a Master of Business Administration from James Madison University. She also graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program.
Bettina Ring
Chief Sustainability and Diversity Officer
202-982-1811
Jerri Taylor
Director of Diversity in Career Pathways
202-936-5254
Jerri Taylor
Director of Diversity in Career Pathways
202-936-5254
jerri.taylor@forests.org
Jerri leverages successful tools and resources to build support programs for diverse young people as they navigate green careers. She leads the career pathways programming, the Green Mentor program, and the Green Jobs employer training efforts. Jerri will also support the Chief Sustainability and Diversity Officer in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across all SFI pillars. She is an experienced K-12 professional school counselor and has dedicated her professional life to connecting youth with resources and opportunities. Jerri holds a Masters of Education and Human Development, with a concentration in school counseling from George Washington University, and a Bachelors in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Maryland.
Paul Robitaille
Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations
Paul.Robitaille@forests.org
705-427-7249
Paul plays a central role in SFI’s partnerships with Indigenous communities. He is a citizen of the Métis Nation, with roots in the historic Drummond Island Métis community, and has a wealth of experience in supporting Indigenous rights recognition, relationship building and socioeconomic development. Paul’s work also has a specific focus on understanding the unique realities faced by First Nation, Métis and Inuit youth. As both a professional and an elected community official, Paul has worked to build greater understanding and collaboration between Indigenous communities across Canada and the industry actors operating within their territories. Paul holds a Master of Science in Forestry from Lakehead University and a Forest Technician Diploma and Certificate in Aboriginal‑Canadian Relations from Confederation College. Paul is a recipient of the Governor General’s Academic Medal and the J. Michael Waldram Memorial Fellowship, recognizing his work as an emerging young Indigenous leader in the natural resources field.
Paul Robitaille
Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations
705-427-7249
Jacob Handel
Senior Director, Indigenous Relations
Jacob.Handel@forests.org
587-768-0311
Jacob plays a leadership role in SFI’s efforts to build and promote forest-focused collaborations rooted in recognition and respect for Indigenous Peoples’ rights and traditional knowledge. He is a stakeholder engagement professional with over 20 years of experience in the environmental field, Indigenous and stakeholder engagement, strategy development, regulatory processes, and negotiation. He is a recognized leader with strong listening skills and creative problem-solving abilities that advance environmental and stakeholder engagement efforts. A member of SFI’s Senior Leadership Team, Jacob works closely with the Indigenous Relations Team and across all SFI pillars. Prior to joining SFI, he was an Aboriginal Affairs Advisor at a leading Canadian paper and forest products manufacturing company. His past experience also includes working for governments and nonprofits. Jacob holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Sciences from the University of Alberta.
Jacob Handel
Senior Director, Indigenous Relations
587-768-0311
Dean Assinewe
Indigenous Opportunities Advisor
Dean.Assinewe@forests.org
705-863-1969
Dean helps Indigenous communities and businesses increase access to Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada) Green Jobs wage-matching and skills funding. He focuses especially on areas that enhance community capacity to attain third-party forest certification. Dean is a seasoned professional with more than 20 years of experience in forestry management, research, renewable energy development, forest inventory, and silviculture. He has served as a mentor in PLT Canada’s Green Mentor program. Prior to joining SFI, Dean was an industry advisor on Indigenous economic development. He is a Registered Professional Forester and holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in forestry from Lakehead University.
Dean Assinewe
Indigenous Opportunities Advisor
705-863-1969
Catherine Langille
Indigenous Relations Coordinator
613-742-3781 x 466
Catherine.Langille@forests.org
Catherine plays a central role in SFI’s partnerships with Indigenous communities. Her work has a specific focus on understanding the unique realities faced by First Nation, Métis, and Inuit youth. Catherine also works to expand Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada) programming and to ensure that all initiatives are accessible and responsive to the unique needs of Indigenous youth across Canada. She is a PLT Canada ambassador, inviting Indigenous youth, professionals, and employers to join PLT Canada’s growing community. Catherine’s experience navigating PLT Canada’s programming as a Green Jobs youth participant and mentee gives her an in-depth perspective on ways to support continued program growth. She knows her work matters because it is supporting SFI and PLT Canada’s mission to support Indigenous youth becoming our future forest leaders. Prior to joining SFI, Catherine’s Green Jobs included working with Indigenous youth through the Outland Youth Employment Program and as a biologist assistant in an Ontario provincial park. She holds a diploma in environmental science and natural resources from Fleming College and is working toward a degree in Indigenous environmental studies at Trent University.
Catherine Langille
Indigenous Relations Coordinator
613-742-3781 x 466
SFI STANDARDS
Jason Metnick
Senior VP, Customer Affairs
602-374-6539
Jason.Metnick@forests.org
Jason leads the standards pillar at SFI, with a focus on elevating the SFI standards as a proof point for sustainable forestry and responsible purchasing. His work advances the standards pillar through engaging and communicating the value of SFI’s standards to certified organizations, customers of SFI‑certified organizations, and others interested in the value of sustainable forestry. Jason has worked at SFI since 2001 and holds a Bachelor of Science in forestry from Northern Arizona University. He is a member of the Society of American Foresters and sits on a number of committees related to forest certification, chain of custody, and eco-labeling. He lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his wife, two daughters, and Maple the wonder dog.
Jason Metnick
Senior VP, Customer Affairs
602-374-6539
Gregor Macintosh
Senior Director, Standards
778-351-3358
Gregor.Macintosh@forests.org
Gregor oversees the technical requirements of the SFI standards. He helps SFI‑certified organizations implement the standards and supports the work of accredited certification bodies with their SFI standards audits. Prior to joining SFI in 2013, Gregor was a certification auditor for 13 years working with the main North American certification standards. Gregor has over 30 years of professional experience with forestry operations, forest certification and standards development. He holds a Bachelor of Science in forestry from the University of British Columbia, is a Registered Professional Forester in the province of British Columbia and is a Society of American Foresters, Certified Forester. Gregor and his family live in Victoria, B.C. He spends as much time as possible in B.C.’s beautiful forests indulging in his love of flyfishing.
Gregor Macintosh
Senior Director, Standards
778-351-3358
Annie Perkins
Senior Director, Green Building and Supply Chain
202-558-0016
Annie.Perkins@forests.org
Annie works to inspire and advance positive change by accelerating sustainable development by using certified wood products. Her experience in product transparency, climate change, and the circular economy, coupled with her passion to improve communities near and far, supports that mission. As an accredited LEED Green Associate, Chair U.S. Green Building Council MN, Middle St. Croix Watershed board member, and Council Member for the City of Afton, MN, Annie casts a wide net in efforts to improve the world. Her love for all living things fuels her work, and play—you’ll find her skiing or biking in the mountains or chillaxing along the banks of the Saint Croix National Wild and Scenic River.
Annie Perkins
Senior Director, Green Building and Supply Chain
202-558-0016
Paul Johnson
Senior Director, Urban and Community Forestry
202-719-1379 ext 473
Paul.Johnson@forests.org
Paul leads SFI’s efforts to enhance the sustainability of urban forestry through the SFI Urban and Community Forest Sustainability Standard. He is an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Board Certified Master Arborist, Municipal Specialist, and is Tree Risk Assessment, Texas Oak Wilt, and Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualified. He is also a Society of American Foresters Certified Forester. Paul has been recognized as a True Professional of Arboriculture by ISA and received the Leah MacSwords Current Achievement Award for Communications from NASF. He is Past President of the ISA Board of Directors and he graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Forestry. He has been a state urban and community forestry program leader, radio talk show host, newspaper columnist, university extension horticulturist, university adjunct instructor, and plant healthcare specialist. Paul believes that #TreesAreKey to healthier, happier, safer communities.
Paul Johnson
Senior Director, Urban and Community Forestry
202-719-1389 ext 473
Rachel Dierolf
Director, Standards Reporting and Label Use
613-274-0124
Rachel.Dierolf@forests.org
Rachel works to support, strengthen, and grow SFI standards and trademark use. She also works to ensure the data SFI collects matters to SFI and the SFI community. She has spent her career working with forest-related data, making it accessible and understandable to others. Rachel worked in Germany for the Albert-Ludwigs-University Faculty of Forest Biometrics. She led a course based on online statistics for a forest biometrics teaching module she developed as part of her master’s degree. Moving back to Canada in 2004, she worked for Abusow International Ltd. collecting and analyzing forest certification data before joining SFI in 2007. She holds a Master of Science from Albert-Ludwigs-University in Sustainable Forestry and Land Use Management and speaks German fluently. She lives in Ottawa with her husband and three children and is passionate about finding fun new ways to make the outdoors accessible for her daughter with mobility challenges.
Rachel Dierolf
Director, Standards Reporting and Label Use
613-274-0124
Courtney Ryncarz
Coordinator, Statistics and Label Use
202-719-1391
Courtney.ryncarz@forests.org
Courtney supports the SFI Office of Label Use and Licensing by reviewing SFI logo use and providing customer service to SFI‑certified organizations. Courtney also oversees the certificate, audit report, and SFI‑certified product information on SFIdatabase.org. Courtney holds a Master of Public Service and Administration degree from Texas A&M University. She lives in the Washington, DC area and enjoys being outdoors and hiking with her dogs.
Courtney Ryncarz
Coordinator, Statistics and Label Use
202-719-1391
Calie Schaefer
Coordinator, Sustainable Products
613-701-2176
Calie.Schaefer@forests.org
Calie supports the standards pillar by researching forest-based products and analyzing sustainability policies in the marketplace. Her work aids the SFI standards team by supporting the integrity of SFI standards. Calie does this by collecting and organizing sustainable forest products information. Calie holds a Master of Environment and Sustainability degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminology and political science from the University of Western Ontario. She lives outside London, Ontario and enjoys hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Calie Schaefer
Coordinator, Sustainable Products
613-701-2176
Alix Olson
Urban and Community Forestry Intern
403-917-9434
Alix.Olson@forests.org
Alix is focused on supporting the development of the new SFI Urban and Community Forestry Sustainability Standard. As part of SFI’s urban and community forestry team, Alix works to increase the resiliency and sustainability of communities, both large and small. She is passionate about urban forestry and creating sustainable standards for the forest sector. Before joining SFI, she worked as a tree specialist at a nursery, a landscape technician for the City of Edmonton, and was part of the environmental team at the District of North Vancouver. Alix holds a Bachelor of Urban Forestry from the University of British Columbia and is pursuing an Environmental Management Certificate from the University of Calgary. She loves spending time outside, often with her cat Earl, who behaves more like a dog than a cat.
Alix Olson
Urban and Community Forestry Intern
403-917-9434
SFI CONSERVATION
Lauren Cooper
Chief Conservation Officer
Lauren assumes her full-time role in April 2023. Between now and then, she is supporting SFI senior leadership and the SFI Conservation Team to ensure strategic priorities are addressed. Lauren will head the SFI Conservation Pillar, providing conservation leadership internally as well as externally to our network of resource professionals, landowners, educators, local communities, Indigenous Peoples, and governments. She will develop best management practices for climate-smart forestry and fire resiliency and awareness, lead SFI participation in collaborative efforts to conserve forested landscapes and integrate Indigenous knowledge into SFI conservation programs. Lauren currently leads the Forest Carbon and Climate Program at Michigan State University, and she has international experience working with Indigenous communities in Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, and the United States. Lauren has served as a convener, moderator, and facilitator in high-level climate events, engaged in numerous climate working groups and has developed climate curriculum, educational materials, and plans. She currently serves as a steering committee member with the Women’s Forest Congress and on the Forest-Climate Working Group. Lauren is passionate about building new relationships at the intersection of sustainability, forests, society, and climate.
Lauren Cooper
Chief Conservation Officer
Leonardo (Leo) Viana
Vice President, Conservation Collaboration
202-719-1390
Leonardo.Viana@forests.org
Leo provides leadership to SFI’s Conservation Impact Project, the SFI Conservation Grants Program, and the Conservation Impact Sounding Board. He also supports SFI by generating collaborative partnerships within the conservation non-profit and scientific communities to develop, disseminate, and amplify the conservation-related benefits of SFI-certified sustainably managed forests. He brings over 20 years of experience working around the world toward the conservation of biodiversity, and to advance water conservation and climate issues in geographies as diverse as Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Nicaragua, and Peru. Leo’s publications include co-authoring “A Metric for Spatially Explicit Contributions to Science-based Species Targets” in Nature Ecology & Evolution. Before joining SFI, he worked at Conservation International, the Ocean Conservancy, and the World Bank’s Global Environment Facility. Leo has a Master of Science in ecology, conservation, and wildlife management from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais in Brazil and a Bachelor of Science in wildlife conservation from the University of Delaware. He lives in San Diego, California with his wife and two children where they enjoy being outdoors as much as possible.
Leonardo (Leo) Viana
Vice President, Conservation Collaboration
202-719-1390
Darren Sleep
Lead Scientist
613-424-8734
Darren.Sleep@forests.org
Darren is responsible for the incorporation of up-to-date and scientifically rigorous technical content across all SFI’s pillars, ensuring that SFI’s work is grounded in thoughtful, science-based knowledge and communications, and that SFI standards and education programs reflect the latest in scientific understanding. He manages the conservation pillar’s scientific investigations and collaborations and provides leadership on current conservation issues of relevance to forest and supply chain sustainability in support of SFI’s mission, serving on several regional, national, and international scientific advisory boards, including the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s (UNECE) Boreal Forest Team of Experts. Darren brings expertise on wildlife management, species at risk, and forest science-policy integration to SFI, along with a passion for conservation, and communicating about science with the public. Darren’s recent publications include contributions to the journals Forest Science, Avian Conservation and Ecology, and Scientific Reports. Darren has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of New Brunswick, a Master’s degree from the University of Regina, and a PhD from the University of Guelph. Darren’s free time is spent in various outdoor pursuits, including downhill skiing, wilderness backpacking, canoeing, and kayaking.
Darren Sleep
Lead Scientist
613-424-8734
Rachel Hamilton
Sr. Coordinator, Conservation Partnerships
613-745-3706
Rachel.Hamilton@forests.org
Rachel supports the SFI Conservation Program by aiding in conservation grants program tracking and contributing to conservation communications, research, and collaborative projects. She joined SFI in 2014, originally supporting the Standards team and the Office of Label Use and Licensing. Before joining SFI, Rachel worked for the National Capital Commission on environmental assessments and asset management. She gained experience through multiple internships in the natural resource field that focused on endangered species habitat, landscape ecology, and wetland mitigation. Rachel received her Bachelor of Science in wildlife science from Virginia Tech, with minors in biology and natural resource recreation. She earned a Master of Science in biology from the University of Western Ontario specializing in bat ecology.
Rachel Hamilton
Sr. Coordinator, Conservation Partnerships
343-803-0590
Emily Anderson
Coordinator, Conservation Partnerships
613-701-1501
Emily.Anderson@forests.org
Emily provides broad support for the team with a focus on advancing engagement with the SFI network of conservation partners. She also aids in tracking the SFI Conservation Grants Program and contributing to conservation communications, research, and collaborative projects in support of the SFI mission. Prior to joining SFI in 2021, Emily held a management position with the Ocean Wise Conservation Association and also worked in donor relations for the World Wildlife Fund. She holds a Master of Science in sustainability management from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts degree in environmental studies and geography from Wilfrid Laurier University. Outside of work, Emily enjoys hiking with her dog, backcountry camping, photography, and volunteering at a local animal rescue.
Emily Anderson
Coordinator, Conservation Partnerships
613-701-1501
Carley Archibald
Coordinator, GIS and Conservation Research
613-701-2179
Carley.Archibald@forests.org
Carley uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a tool to explore and conduct research, develop the groundwork for partnerships, and creatively communicate key results to diverse audiences. Her work supports generating, measuring, and communicating conservation outcomes that demonstrate the contribution of SFI‑certified forests and forests affected by the SFI Fiber Sourcing Standard, to overall ecosystem health and sustainability. Carley also updates and maintains SFI’s spatial database and interactive maps, provides expedited analyses for queries related to SFI‑certified forests or research initiatives, and collaborates with staff across the organization to produce creative new ways to display data. Growing up in rural Nova Scotia ignited Carley’s interest in the natural world, and she still spends most of her spare time hiking, biking, and exploring in the Acadian Forest. Carley earned a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and a Certificate in Geographic Information Science from Dalhousie University in 2020.
Carley Archibald
Coordinator, GIS and Conservation Research
613-701-2179
SFI COMMUNITY
Nadine Block
Senior VP, Community and Government Relations
202-596-3456
Nadine.Block@forests.org
Nadine leads the Community pillar at SFI, with a focus on advancing collaboration between the SFI network and local communities. Her work supports the capacity of the SFI network, strengthens relationships with government leaders, and utilizes SFI’s community grants to advance forest sustainability and outreach at the local level. Prior to joining SFI in 2010, she was Director of Forest Policy at the American Forest & Paper Association and Program Manager at the Pinchot Institute for Conservation. Nadine has over 25 years of professional experience on forest policy and holds a Master of Forestry degree from the Yale School of the Environment and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Williams College. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, twin sons, and rescue dog, enjoys hiking and camping, and volunteers with their local Boy Scouts troop.
Nadine Block
Senior VP, Community and Government Relations
202-596-3456
Gordy Mouw
Director, Network Relations
715-220-4132
Gordy.Mouw@forests.org
Gordy supports and leverages the work of SFI Implementation Committees and SFI-certified organizations across the US and Canada to demonstrate the impact of sustainably managed forests and community engagement. Prior to joining SFI, he led certification efforts for Stora Enso, New Page and Verso with chain-of-custody, fiber sourcing and forest management certifications. Gordy is a graduate of Michigan Technological University School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. He lives in Wisconsin with his wife, daughter, and hunting dog. Gordy enjoys hunting, fishing, and making maple syrup.
Gordy Mouw
Director, Network Relations
715-220-4132
SFI EDUCATION/CAREER PATHWAYS
Jess Kaknevicius
VP, Education
647-797-1117
jessica.kaknevicius@forests.org
Jess leads the education and careers pathways work at SFI—advancing environmental literacy, stewardship, and career pathways. Her leadership focuses on engaging young people in understanding the values and benefits of sustainably managed forests and considering a career in the sector, through SFI’s leading education and career pathways programs, Project Learning Tree (PLT) and PLT Canada. Jess is most passionate about creating opportunities for young people to build their connection with the forest through experiences, tools, and resources. Jess has spent over 15 years working in the not-for-profit sector focused on strategic development, fundraising, program delivery, and communications, and has won several awards including the Canadian Forest Industries’ Top 10 under 40 award, Forests Ontario’s Susan Wiecek Forest Education Award, and the Canadian Institute of Forestry’s James M. Kitz Award. She lives in Toronto where she loves getting outside with her family.
Jess Kaknevicius
VP, Education
647-797-1117
Kate Nagle
Director, Education and PLT Network
202-765-3609
kate.nagle@forests.org
Kate provides strategic leadership in SFI’s education pillar to increase the reach, impact, and efficacy of our programs and resources. Kate’s work focuses on measuring and evaluating the reach and impact of Project Learning Tree (PLT) and working directly with our PLT Network of state and international partners to build and strengthen our collaborative and funding partnerships. Working for SFI means Kate gets to bridge her love of the outdoors with her passion for improving educational outcomes for students of all ages. Students grow and excel when their learning is deeply rooted in the world around them and they are empowered to see themselves as an integral part of preserving that world. Kate comes to SFI after spending the past 10 years as a classroom teacher, curriculum developer, and professional development leader. Kate holds a Master of Education in secondary chemistry from Boston College and a Bachelor of Arts in conservation chemistry from Sarah Lawrence College.
Kate Nagle
Director, Education and PLT Network
202-984-9571
Jerri Taylor
Director of Diversity in Career Pathways
202-936-5254
Jerri Taylor
Director of Diversity in Career Pathways
202-936-5254
jerri.taylor@forests.org
Jerri leads the career pathways work at SFI, including our mentorship programs and working with employers on supporting a diverse and resilient workforce. Jerri is a Professional School Counselor with an extensive background in creating and implementing comprehensive school counseling programs and building strong community partnerships, which have resulted in career pathways tailored to disenfranchised communities. Being raised with a horticulture and aquaculture background as a daughter of a Black tobacco and tilapia fish farmer, Jerri has over 15 years of formal and informal education around agricultural practices. Jerri holds a Master of Education and Human Development with a concentration in school counseling, from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in family and consumer sciences from the University of Maryland, at College Park.
Rocco Saracina
Senior Manager, PLT Network
202-596-3459
Rocco.Saracina@forests.org
Rocco plays an integral role in developing and implementing strategies to advance SFI’s conservation programs and enhance relationships with partners. He administers the SFI Conservation Grant Program, which funds innovative projects that advance understanding of sustainable forestry practices. He leads the SFI University Engagement Program, which includes the annual conference scholarship program, internship opportunities, and SFI’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Working Group. Outside SFI, Rocco serves as Communications Chair for the Society of American Forester’s (SAF) Diversity and Inclusion Working Group. He also serves on the National Capitol SAF Chapter Executive Committee, where he is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership. Before joining SFI in 2013, he conducted fire ecology field studies as a U.S. Forest Service technician, and stream geomorphology and habitat assessments with an environmental consulting firm. He holds a Master of Natural Resource in sustainability from Virginia Tech and a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from California’s Humboldt State University. Rocco’s extensive travel in Honduras and academic casework in India has led him to believe personal empathy and cultural understanding are among sustainability’s strongest tools.
Rocco Saracina
Senior Manager, PLT Network
202-596-3459
Danika Strecko
Senior Manager, Education
613-505-5872
danika.strecko@forests.org
Danika plays a central role in SFI’s education and career pathways work, leading development of cross-border educational materials and programs and expanding SFI’s education work in Canada. Danika leads implementing the Project Learning Tree Canada Forest Literacy Framework and expanding the reach and engagement of youth in environmental literacy, stewardship, and career pathways. Danika is motivated to build a new generation of leadership that will take responsibility for solving environmental challenges and is empowered to take actions that benefit forests and all of us. Prior to joining SFI, she was the manager of online learning and ocean literacy at the not-for-profit Ocean Wise and a board member of the Marine Life Sanctuaries Society. Danika is a B.C. Ministry of Education Certified Teacher and holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia. She is working towards a Master of Educational Technology from UBC. Outside of work, she enjoys Vancouver’s access to nature by hiking, kayaking, and snowboarding.
Danika Strecko
Senior Manager, Education
613-505-5872
Ana Leirner
Instructional Designer, Adult Learning
202-765-3657
Ana.Leirner@forests.org
Ana leads SFI’s training and professional development courses and initiatives including online learning. She advances the work of the SFI education pillar by ensuring that people working with youth and communities have the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to advance environmental literacy, stewardship, and green career pathways through the lens of trees and forests. Ana also creates online learning opportunities that support youth in forging their unique green career pathway. Before joining SFI, Ana worked as a learning designer in various industries, developing courses in topics that included climate and STEM education. Ana holds a Master of Education in educational media and technology from Boston University and a Master of Business Administration from Fundação Getulio Vargas in São Paulo, Brazil. She lives in the Washington DC area and is passionate about creating a more sustainable future for her family and community.
Ana Leirner
Instructional Designer, Adult Learning
202-765-3657
Zachary Wagman
Senior Manager, Green Jobs
613-745-3706
Zachary.Wagman@forests.org
Zac supports the delivery of SFI’s Career Pathways programming, including leading the delivery of Project Learning Tree Canada Green Jobs funding programs with a focus of delivering value-added services to employers in SFI’s network and to young people participating in forest sector employment experiences. His work advances SFI’s mission of forest-focused collaboration by building a network of young people and employers that understand and value each other’s contribution to sustainability. Zac’s work matters because our green future depends on the next generation understanding and appreciating the role that forests play in solving sustainability challenges. In 2019, Zac completed PLT Canada’s cross‑Canada Green Ride for Green Jobs. He lives in Ottawa where he can usually be found cycling or hiking. Zac is on leave until January 2023 while he pursues his Master’s in Sustainable Forest Management at the University of British Columbia.
Zac is on leave until January 2023.
Zachary Wagman
Senior Manager, Green Jobs
613-745-3706
Clayton Whittle
Online Learning Manager
2020545-6675
Clayton.Whittle@forests.org
Clayton develops and updates online courses and green-job tools and resources for Project Learning Tree® (PLT) educators, natural resource professionals, PLT Coordinators, and PLT Facilitators. Among other duties, he also assists in the analysis, design, implementation, and evaluation of online and blended courses, including learner analysis, storyboards, video scripts, job aids, and assessments. Clayton has a strong interest and expertise in gamification—using elements of game playing to make environmental educational activities fun. He has 14 years of experience as a classroom educator and learning designer. He holds a masters degree in communications from Texas A&M University and is a PhD candidate specializing in environmental education design at Penn State University. Clayton works primarily from his home in Detroit, Michigan.
Clayton Whittle
Online Learning Manager
202-545-6675
Lydia Kidane
Coordinator, Education Programs
202-765-3651
Lydia.Kidane@forests.org
Lydia is Project Learning Tree’s® (PLT) main point of contact for customer inquiries, sales and service. She also helps manage PLT’s product inventory, fulfillment, and distribution. Lydia maintains PLT’s e‑commerce operations and provides sales reporting. She has strong experience in sales, marketing, and working with databases. Lydia also has a passion for sustainability, community engagement and urban forestry. Prior to joining PLT, she held positions as an office manager and arborist assistant. Lydia has a Bachelor of Arts in urban sustainability from the University of the District of Columbia.
Lydia Kidane
Coordinator, Education Programs
202-765-3641
Maria Chiarella
Manager, Mentorship and Youth Programs
343-803-0591
Maria.Chiarella@forests.org
Maria
Maria Chiarella
Manager, Mentorship and Youth Programs
343-803-0591
Madhuri Jani
Coordinator, Green Jobs
613-742-3782
Madhuri.Jani@forests.org
Madhuri supports PLT Canada’s Green Jobs in Green Spaces Initiative with outreach to employers and youth. She works directly with provincial, territorial, and international network partners to ensure successful program operations across Canada. Madhuri also provides administrative support and develops communications products and reports. Before joining SFI, Madhuri planned and organized sustainability events and training programs at the University of Western Ontario in London. She also helped develop a strategy to engage tourism sectors to protect Lake Erie on behalf of an NGO. Madhuri holds a Master of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario and a Bachelor of Science from Indira Gandhi National Open University in India.
Madhuri Jani
Coordinator, Green Jobs
613-742-3782
James Thordarson
Coordinator, Forest Education
613-703-3347
James.Thordarson@forests.org
James’s inspiration to work at SFI was being able to fill a role where he provides Forest education to anyone and everyone who wants to learn more about the natural world around them. Working with youth is a highlight for James and he knows this work matters because forests are the future and so are the young people who will steward forests for generations to come. James has a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario and has completed all requirements for his Master of Science in Forestry, from Lakehead University. While pursuing his Masters, he served as a graduate assistant, teaching students and helping to manage curriculum. Outside work, James enjoys tree climbing and working on his hobby farm.
James Thordarson
Coordinator, Forest Education
613-703-3347
Brittany Lodge
Youth Program Coordinator, PLT Canada
613-704-0047
Brittany.Lodge@forests.org
Brittany plays a key role in piloting the Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT Canada) Ambassadors Program and will be supporting the entire PLT Canada team in enhancing the number, relevancy, and accessibility of opportunities for a wide range of youth in the forest and conservation sectors. Brittany has experience in supporting diverse youth, including Indigenous youth and new Canadians, in gaining valuable life skills and work experience. Before joining SFI, Brittany was a project leader with a national Canadian life skills and work experience program focused on contributing to community development through volunteerism. She attended Dalhousie University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with a major in international development and a certificate in intercultural communication.
Brittany Lodge
Youth Program Coordinator, PLT Canada
613-704-0047
Shwetha Kengasur Venkatesh
Green Jobs Coordinator, PLT Canada
613-702-9378
Shwetha.Kengasure.Venkatesh@forests.org
Shwetha supports Project Learning Tree Canada Green jobs in Green Spaces Initiatives with outreach to employers and youth, administrative support, developing communication items, and supporting development of reports. She works directly with provincial, territorial, and international network partners to ensure successful programing across the country. Prior to joining SFI, Shwetha volunteered as a sustainability intern, social media volunteer and completed a green energy/green building project. She also worked as a graduate assistant while completing her Master of Engineering in environmental engineering from the University of Windsor. Shwetha lives in Windsor, Ontario with her son and husband, and is an avid reader.
Shwetha Kengasur Venkatesh
Green Jobs Coordinator, PLT Canada
613-702-9378
Shuya Huang
Coordinator, Education Systems
613-701-2174
Shuya.Huang@forests.org
Shuya supports PLT Canada’s Project Learning Tree Canada Green Jobs internship program by engaging, deepening, and supporting green career pathways for diverse Canadian youth and forming strong partnerships with forest and conservation sector employers. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, Shuya is on her way to becoming trilingual by learning French. Her facility with languages is a natural complement to her talents as a storyteller, and her people skills served her well working to organize side events at the United Nations conventions. Shuya graduated from the University of Toronto with a Master’s in environmental sciences. Whenever possible, she indulges in her love of hiking.
Shuya Huang
Coordinator, Education Systems
613-701-2174
Emma Roehrig
Education and Policy Research Intern
202-936-5063
Emma.Roehrig@forests.org
Emma supports the Education and Career Pathways team at SFI where she is working on analyzing federal and state policy that will help forge collaborations and advance the development of environmental education curriculum. She also engages with the Project Learning Tree network. She is passionate about climate change mitigation and works to spread environmental education and help more people learn about forests. Emma graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and is pursuing her Master of Environmental Resource Policy at George Washington University.
Emma Roehrig
Education and Policy Research Intern
202-936-5063
SFI COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING
David Folkerson
VP, Communications
613-565-0627
David.Folkerson@forests.org
David leads SFI’s binational communications team, which also includes Project Learning Tree and Project Learning Tree Canada. He and his team are passionate storytellers who love trees and the outdoors. In fact, David spends much of his free time paddling the lake with his two small boys at his cottage in North Frontenac, Ontario. He has spent his career in non-profit communications, leading teams and overseeing national programs, in both Canada and the US. He has a marketing MBA from the Université du Québec en Outaouais and a Bachelor of Arts in communications from the University of Ottawa. He is also a PMP‑certified project manager and is just as happy to speak and write en français.
David Folkerson
VP, Communications
613-565-0627
Megan Annis
Director, Sales and Marketing
202-596-3470
Megan.Annis@forests.org
Megan leads SFI’s marketing strategy to bring Project Learning Tree (PLT) and PLT Canada environmental education, forest literacy, and career pathways products to market across the US and Canada. She creates and manages targeted campaigns to increase engagement, utilization, and sales of PLT resources. Megan also contributes compelling strategic communications content that broadly supports PLT’s environmental education goals and SFI’s mission to advance sustainability through forest-focused collaborations. Megan believes working with youth is the key to building a sustainable future. Her passion for youth-focused environmental action runs in her family. After noticing trash piling up in local parks, Megan and her young sons formed the Folsom Clean-Up Bugs to host monthly community clean‑ups.
Megan Annis
Director, Sales and Marketing
202-596-3470
Jennifer Byerly
Director, Communications
202-596-3457
Jennifer.Byerly@forests.org
Jennifer manages strategic communications and marketing initiatives for SFI and Project Learning Tree, where she helps advance sustainability by building community and amplifying both organizations’ good work with content creation. Jennifer is passionate about supporting the next generation of conservationists with forest-focused collaboration and getting the word out to many different audiences, including partners, educators, consumers, conservation thought leaders, and donors. A latchkey kid who grew up around DC, her green career path appeared later, when she transitioned from supporting university communications to natural resource nonprofit digital strategy. A more sustainable world will require both sectors, which will depend on recruiting and retaining engaged individuals, as well as supporting local communities.
Jennifer Byerly
Director, Communications
202-596-3457
Monika Gurzenski
Senior Creative Director
Monika.Gurzenski@forests.org
Monika leads the design development at SFI (with oversight of Project Learning Tree and Project Learning Tree Canada). She helps design and develop marketing tools that strengthen SFI’s brand, exemplifies the value SFI brings to global sustainability challenges that are material to SFI’s network and ESG frameworks, and leverages the strength of SFI’s pillars. Monika designs material to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or solve problems. Monika holds an MBA from Westminster College in Salt Lake City and lives in the mountains of western Colorado where she enjoys spending as much time as possible outside.
Monika Gurzenski
Senior Creative Director
Steve Wilent
Director, Sustainability Communications
202-979-1897
Steve.Wilent@forests.org
As a trained forester and skilled writer, Steve’s expertise brings important perspective to SFI’s communications team. Before joining SFI, Steve was the editor and publisher of Natural Resources Management Today. He was also the editor of The Forestry Source, a publication of the Society of American Foresters, for more than 16 years. In 2018, he edited and contributed to 193 Million Acres: Toward a Healthier and More Resilient US Forest Service—a collection of essays that examine the challenges facing the US Forest Service and propose solutions to address them. Steve’s deep knowledge of forest certification and the SFI standards includes experience witnessing an audit. He also is an adjunct forestry and wildlife management instructor at Mt. Hood Community College, near Portland, Oregon. Steve holds an Associate of Science degree in Forest Technology from Sierra College and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from San Jose State University.
Steve Wilent
Director, Sustainability Communications
202-979-1897
Mira Willamson
Manager, Communications and Media Relations
613-704-7248
Mira.Williamson@forests.org
Mira elevates the impact that SFI and PLT Canada programs have on people, communities, and forests. She promotes forest-focused collaborations and creates more interest for future collaborations with articles, ads, and webpages. Through these channels, Mira helps young adults and employers learn about PLT Canada’s work and understand its value to recruit more participants for future programs and build a diverse and resilient Green Jobs workforce. She holds a Master of Media in Journalism and Communication from Western University. Mira loves spending time outdoors with her dog Phineas.
Mira Williamson
Manager, Communications and Media Relations
613-704-7248
Alex Leonard
Coordinator, PLT Canada Communications
343-803-0540
Alex.Leonard@forests.org
Alex supports SFI’s marketing efforts, particularly through video production and social media. His area of responsibility advances SFI’s mission by strengthening youth engagement through Project Learning Tree Canada, creating educational videos for Project Learning Tree, and managing media content representing SFI’s values. Outside work, Alex hosts The Creative Kind and The Sustainable Kind podcasts, where he speaks with inspiring creators and global leaders across a variety of sectors. He holds a Master’s in Environment and Sustainability from Western University as well as a Bachelor of Arts in communications and Cultural Studies from Concordia University with a minor in philosophy. Alex is also a certified drone pilot, award-winning documentary filmmaker, and all-year-long gardener at his home in Toronto.
Alex Leonard
Coordinator, PLT Canada Communications
343-803-0540
Meggan Sleep
Coordinator, Marketing a Communication
613-505-5935
Meggan.Sleep@forests.org
Meggan supports Project Learning Tree (PLT) communications and marketing efforts and works to advance sustainability through forest-focused collaborations by engaging the PLT network, stodnrytelling, and leveraging the importance of environmental education using PLT’s programs. Prior to joining SFI, Meggan worked with non-profit organizations to help advance their missions, including Nature Canada, where she assisted with their annual photo contest and digital fundraising initiatives. She graduated from Algonquin College with a degree in public relations. She lives in Ottawa, with her two dogs, and enjoys hiking and fishing.
Meggan Sleep
Coordinator, Marketing & Communication
613-505-5935
Kelvin Braun
Media and Indigenous Communications Intern
403-278-3327
Kelvin.Braun@forests.org
Kelvin works on social media and reporting, graphic design and video, and Indigenous relations communications. He brings a sense of mission and passion for sustainability and the betterment of people to all of his work. Kelvin earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication and media studies from the University of Calgary. Prior to joining SFI, he was with Mosaic North America as an e commerce advisor working on the Canada Digital Adoption Program through the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. This work helped Indigenous-led small-to-medium-sized businesses build a digital presence, including e commerce solutions and digital marketing campaigns. Kelvin enjoys travelling to the mountains on weekends to hike and take photos. During the warmer seasons he and his family camp and explore many of the national and provincial parks in Alberta and British Columbia. Kelvin is Cree, born in Winnipeg, with familial roots in Opaskwayak Cree Nation.
Kelvin Braun
Media and Indigenous Communications Intern
403-278-3327
SFI ADMINISTRATION/OPERATIONS
Brian Crowe
Chief Financial Officer
202-765-3545
Brian.Crowe@forests.org
Brian is responsible for SFI’s financial and economic strategy. His background is a mix of for-profit and non-profit experience and includes knowledge in financial analysis and valuation, individual and corporate tax, compliance, internal controls, software implementation, and project and program management. Brian is passionate about the non-profit sector and has a proven record of aligning strategic initiatives with revenue and expense management within the environmental sector to steward intelligent resource allocation and enhance value. Brian began his career in the banking industry, later transitioning to public accounting where he specialized in consulting and auditing financial institutions. Prior to joining SFI, he held positions as the Chief Financial Officer at the Council on Foundations and Assistant Director of Finance at Ocean Conservancy. Brian has a bachelor’s degree in business, a minor in economics, and a master’s degree in accounting. He is a Certified Public Accountant in the District of Columbia and holds a Certified Management Accountant credential. When he is not crunching numbers, Brian enjoys being outdoors.
Brian Crowe
Chief Financial Officer
202-765-3545
Mila Snejinscaia
Business Director, Project Learning Tree Canada
613-703-5570
Mila.Snejin@forests.org
Mila leads the financial operations of Project Learning Tree Canada, including reporting and compliance, in addition to supporting fundraising. Prior to joining SFI, Mila worked as a controller at various not-for-profit organizations for 10 years. She has more than 20 years of progressive experience in financial management and financial reporting in both private and not-for-profit sectors, reporting on various projects funded by all levels of government. Mila is pursuing her Chartered Professional Accountant designation. She holds a Master of Arts in history, ethnography, and education, and has a teaching diploma. She speaks Russian fluently and has some facility in Romanian. In her free time, Mila enjoys kayaking and exploring Ottawa’s urban forest trails.
Mila Snejinscaia
Business Director, Project Learning Tree Canada
613-703-5570
Julia Hershberger
Director, Human Resources
202-596-3455
Julia.Hershberger@forests.org
Julia leads the human resources functions and supports SFI’s four pillars—standards, conservation, education and community—by meeting the talent, culture, and resource needs of the organization and employees. She oversees recruiting, payroll and compensation, benefits, labor compliance, the performance review process, and employee development. Julia has over 12 years of experience in non-profit operations in the environmental sector. Prior to her career in operations and HR, Julia freelanced as a classical musician. She lives in the Washington DC area, where you can often see her traveling by bicycle with her two children.
Julia Hershberger
Director, Human Resources
202-596-3455
Manu George
Director, Information Technology
202-571-7030
Manu.George@forests.org
Manu serves as the architect for strategic technology needs across our organization. He also provides high-level analysis and strategy on multiple platforms and systems related to SFI’s work. One of his first big projects is overseeing the implementation of Salesforce. Manu has two decades of experience designing IT systems and a wealth of experience with and a deep understanding of many different technologies. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Business and Technology from Coventry University in the UK, and multiple IT certifications, including a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certificate from Georgetown University.
Manu George
Director, Information Technology
202-571-7030
Jane Kim
Senior Manager, Finance
202-719-1393
Jane.Kim@forests.org
Jane supports SFI’s accounting and operations. Her varied responsibilities include the month-end financial close, budgeting, reporting, and accounts payable. Jane has extensive accounting experience in the non-profit sector. She previously served as Accounting Manager at the Council on Foundations, where she managed the day-to-day functions of the finance department. As a budget analyst at the Ocean Conservancy, Jane facilitated budgeting, reporting, and tracking program grants. She holds a BS in Accounting from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and is currently pursuing her certification in managerial accounting.
Jane Kim
Senior Manager, Finance
202-719-1393
Jennifer Farant
Administrative Assistant, PLT Canada
613-745-5840 ext. 302
Jennifer.Farant@forests.org
Jennifer provides a variety of administrative assistance for PLT Canada. She helps Green Jobs employers and youth, leads office management tasks, and supports PLT Canada Board meetings.
Jennifer Farant
Administrative Assistant, PLT Canada
613-745-5840 ext. 302
Wendy Wong
Program Accountant
613-703-3384 ex. 499
Wendy.Wong@forests.org
Wendy is a skilled accountant with 15 years of experience in budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. She “excels” at Excel and has experience reporting to Canadian government funding agencies. Prior to joining SFI, Wendy held financial roles in the non-profit sector and at several higher education institutions. In addition to her technical expertise, Wendy is comfortable working and partnering with both financial and non-financial colleagues to ensure management and administrative staff follow accounting and organizational processes. She holds a Bachelor of Management in Accounting from the University of Lethbridge.
Wendy Wong
Program Accountant
613-703-3384 ex. 499
Kirsten Whitford
Coordinator, Human Resources
202-982-5556
Kirsten.Whitford@forests.org
Kirsten supports SFI’s growing team by managing onboarding and offboarding processes, assisting with the hiring of new staff, administering benefits, supporting payroll processes, and answering employee human resources questions. Before joining SFI, Kirsten was an HR Coordinator at Earth Fare, a supermarket chain that improves lives by making healthy food available to everyone. She also taught seventh grade math as an AmeriCorps Urban Education Fellow. Kirsten is pursuing a Master of Science in Human Resources from Western Carolina University and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Ohio Wesleyan University.
Kirsten Whitford
Coordinator, Human Resources
202-982-5556
Amandine Nonga
Senior Coordinator, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable
202-596-3454
Amandine.Nonga@forests.org
Amandine supports the accounting and operations functions of SFI, Inc., and provides administrative support for the Washington D.C. office. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in international business communication from the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, U.K. Amandine is fluent in English and French.
Amandine Nonga
Senior Coordinator, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable
202-596-3454
Maggie McBride
Office Administrator
202-765-3726
Maggie.McBride@forests.org
Maggie manages office administration needs and supports US tradeshows. She is passionate about SFI’s mission and is excited to work at a non-profit in the natural resources sector. Maggie has experience managing administrative tasks such as schedule management, travel arrangements, and meeting support, and she has experience reviewing and assessing community grants. Outside work, Maggie enjoys playing the piano, hiking, and kayaking. Maggie has a Bachelor of Arts and a Certificate in Forestry. She is currently working toward her Master’s in Environmental Resource Policy at George Washington University.
