Our Staff

Prior to joining GBI as CEO, Peter Woodruff’s leadership was most recently spread nationwide at ACE (American Conservation Experience), overseeing a thriving staff and hundreds of federal agency partnerships facilitating conservation across the U.S. and territories. Peter’s signature workforce development programs included the Cultural Resources Diversity Internship Program (CRDIP), National Park Service Academy (NPS/A), Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP), and NPS Mellon Humanities Postdoctoral Fellowship Program. Peter hails from the corn & bean fields of rural Indiana, earned an interdisciplinary Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies at Hamilton College in Clinton, NY focused on field ecology and land-use issues.  He undertook cultural immersion and resource management studies in Botswana, before turning to an AmeriCorps year of service, a wide array of seasonal federal agency work, and wilderness therapy programming. His contributions in wildlife biology, backcountry ranger duties, environmental education, community land trust services, and citizen science found him serving across the California Sierras, interior Alaska, Cape Cod Massachusetts, Utah and Nevada. In addition to his passion for working with amazing colleagues, Fed and NonFed partners, and inspiring emerging conservation professionals, Peter enjoys backcountry skiing, running, and widely exploring our public lands.

Gabe Donaldson, originally from Fort Collins, Colorado, developed a deep connection to the outdoors while growing up in the picturesque foothills near the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest and various municipal mountain parks. His passion lies at the intersection of wildland fire, business, and conservation. Gabe spent 17 years as a Hotshot Superintendent and Smokejumper for the Bureau of Land Management in Elko and Boise, where he gained fundamental and critical experience in risk management and leadership.

 

In 2016, Gabe embraced another leadership role as the Colorado and Arizona Fire Program Manager for The Nature Conservancy. Recognizing the importance of supporting underserved communities, he went on to establish several non-profit businesses and initiatives, aiming to create more job opportunities in the realm of conservation. Gabe’s academic journey spans institutions such as St. John’s College in Santa Fe, the National Outdoor Leadership School in Chile, the University of Northern Colorado, Colorado State University, Truckee Meadows Community College, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he attained a licentiate degree in Biological Sciences (BS) for Wildland Fire Personnel.

 

Gabe joins GBI with his wife, son, and two beloved pit-bull pups, Mari and Daisy. While he currently immerses himself in the XPRIZE competition as part of his team, The Fibonacci Fire Project, Gabe remains dedicated to his other passions outside of work, which includes trail running, reading, and writing short stories.

Kevin Dose is the Chief of Administration for GBI. After graduating with a B.S. in Environmental Health from Purdue University (2002), Kevin traveled west to join GBI’s Nevada Conservation Corps (NCC) program as a Trail Crew Leader stationed at Great Basin National Park. Kevin has held multiple roles over the past twenty years, including NCC Crew Coordinator, NCC Program Director, and most recently GBI Deputy Director. As GBI’s Chief of Administration, Kevin leads GBI’s Business Operations Team, responsible for sustaining GBI through fiscal responsibilities, regulatory compliance, technology, and partnership curation. Kevin enjoys spending time with his wife Dana, daughter Reya, and son Levon in the great outdoors from their home in Littleton, CO.

Gaby Davis is a first generation Mexican born in Southern California and raised in Northern Nevada for most of her life. Through all her various life and work experiences which included working with Elementary students she was able to see her true passion is working with people. She graduated with her AS in Science 2018 and a BA in Human Resources Management in July 2023, becoming the first person in her family to graduate from college. Gaby is excited to bring her love of connecting with people and creating an inclusive workplace at GBI. Gaby loves spending time with her husband and two kids. She also enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and running.

Antonio was born and mostly raised in Southern Nevada. He moved up north in 2007 when he began his studies at the University of Nevada, Reno and simultaneously joined the Wolf Pack Marching Band. Antonio received a B.S. in both International Business and Economics from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2011. Antonio has worked in the HR/Recruiting space for over a decade, supporting many industries; from Accounting and finance, DoD to gaming. When Antonio is not working as a recruiting professional, you can find him playing the tuba and classical piano, albeit not at the same time, we think!

Danielle Tuason is a Reno native and has cherished the beauty of the Tahoe Basin since her early years. Prior to joining GBI, she honed her skills in Customer Satisfaction and Logistics, where her dedication to enhancing the experiences of those around her shone through. With a deep appreciation for public lands not native to her familial heritage, Danielle is excited to channel her passion into providing opportunities for individuals devoted to the conservation field.

 

Outside of work, she enjoys creating functional pottery, camping, indulging in new local eateries, getting out to the many lakes or rivers surrounding home, and spending time with friends and family. Her most recent adventures include frequent travels to Portland, OR, where she spends cherished moments with her new nephew.

Brooke Martin grew up in the woods of North New Jersey, then moved to Maryland and resided there to get her degree from Towson University. She moved to Reno in 2020 to be closer to family and expand her career. She worked a few corporate recruitment jobs before starting at GBI, and she loves the opportunity to do her part in the betterment of our environment. In her free time, she enjoys camping, hiking, painting, and spending time with friends and family.

Alex Williams is the Communications, Media and Marketing Assistant at the Great Basin Institute. With a B.A. in Environmental Policy & Project Management with a Minor in Communication, Alex has also experience being a Conservation Intern for Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) working closely with USDA recreation technicians, participated in Carroll College’s Diversity and Equity Task Force team, was a college athlete and managed the women’s basketball social media and photo/video content.

Following that, she became an AmeriCorps VISTA for GBI focusing on community outreach, event coordinating, social media management and growing Visitor Services volunteer base. Alex has also worked with Washoe County Regional Parks and Open Spaces as a seasonal park aide. 

When she isn’t working you can find her at the lake, shopping or listening to Giggly Squad.

Misty Brown, originally from Seattle, Washington, comes to GBI as the Finance Manager with over 20 years’ experience in the Accounting & Finance field. Misty graduated in 2013 from the University of Phoenix with her Bachelors in Business Management, as well as her certificate in Project Management. She thrives in complex or challenging situations, and hopes that her work ethics and skills are put to great use within GBI. She loves to continuously help others steam-line and improve processes for more efficiency. “Work smarter, not harder” is her motto. She joins GBI with her son. They both enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer, including target shooting, off-roading, and just exploring the areas around the Great Basin region. She comes to GBI excited to be part of something so great, with the mission and values GBI holds for the environmental greater good.

Chris Warner has been professionally involved with the national service movement and environmental stewardship for more than two decades. After graduating from Villanova University with a BA in Sociology (1998), Chris coordinated environmental education activities for EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Region for two years when he served as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer. As an Environmental Management Fellow with EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program, Chris supported several multi-jurisdictional committees whose mandate is to establish policies that aim to improve the water quality of Chesapeake Bay and to manage the Program’s congressionally appropriated annual budget. After relocating to the mountain west in 2002, Chris received his MA in Political Science (Environmental Policy) from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2005. Since graduating from UNR, Chris has spent the entirety of his career at Great Basin Institute, collaborating with colleagues to develop and enhance resource management direct service programs. Chris served as the Institute’s first Research Associates Program Director and presently serves as Director of Development. In his current role, Chris is primarily focused on developing federal and state grants and agreements, and conducting government relations and policy development at the national level on behalf of GBI. In July 2011 Chris moved back to the mid-Atlantic with his family. When he isn’t playing with his two daughters, Chris enjoys cooking, gardening and bird-watching with his wife, as well as exploring the mixed conifer and hardwood forests and rolling hillsides of the surrounding farm country that south central Pennsylvania offers.

Zoe Greig grew up in the California foothills, often traveling throughout the Great Basin and enjoying its immense beauty. She moved to Reno in 2016 to study at UNR and graduated in May of 2020 with a BS in Finance. She worked a few corporate accounting jobs before landing at GBI, and she loves giving back to the area she’s loved her whole life. In her free time, she enjoys camping, kayaking, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Carol Goddard is a Finance Associate for Great Basin Institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and has been working in the accounting field for over 10 years.

 

Carol is a native of northern Nevada and currently lives in Fernley, NV with her husband, 4 children, and German Shepherd. In her spare time, Carol loves to camp, hike and volunteer in dog rescue.

Bailey Craugh grew up on a ranch in Northern Nevada. She worked as a Fiscal Supervisor for a school district in Northern California. Outside of work, Bailey coaches a 12 and under softball team. She enjoys playing softball, and cornhole. Bailey also loves to read, do puzzles, play with her dogs, and spend time with her family and friends. She is so excited to be a GBI team member and is proud to give back to the place she was raised in.

Elijah is a Reno native, graduating in 2019 from the University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor’s in Ecohydrology. They began their career with GBI shortly afterwards as a Nevada Conservation Corps crew member. In the years since, they’ve held a variety of positions with GBI, from replanting native species throughout the Mojave, to serving on the Off Highway Vehicles Mapping Collaborative, to assisting with logistics for the Northern Nevada office. They took on the role of AmeriCorps Compliance Coordinator in 2022.

Marc Oxoby was born and raised in Northern California. He labored extensively over books to acquire a PhD in English from the University of Nevada Reno, where he currently teaches in the Core Humanities Program. Marc provides analytical overview of programmatic scope while also supporting document deliverables. His hobbies include music, comics, craft beer, and rare film, and he (and he alone) considers himself a connoisseur of fine joke telling. Marc is happily married with three kids and a pile of dogs.

Elliot taught 4th Grade for four years in Glendale, AZ and was a two time State Champ Baseball Coach for 5th – 8th graders. Originally from Chicago, he is a Butler University Graduate with a degree in education. After teaching, he transitioned into the IT field and now serves GBI as the Business Technology Integration Specialist. Elliot has a passion for helping others by teaching and passing on knowledge in any and every aspect possible. In his free time, Elliot enjoys spending time with his wife and her son kayaking, skateboarding, and camping in the Sierra Nevada’s.

Joseph Pettibone, a true Renoite and UNR graduate, has always called the Biggest Little City his home. Beyond the 9-to-5, catch him fishing, hiking, skiing, and biking –embracing all things outdoors. Finding joy in the alignment of his job with his values, GBI has turned the daily grind into a daily delight.

Associate Director, Terry Christopher, is proud to be from the great state of Texas, just ask him! He was born in Wichita Falls and spent most of his childhood in north Texas. His love of animals and wildlife was ingrained early on, and some of his fondest memories are of running around catching ornate box turtles and horned lizards (horny toads) on the farm. Living in El Paso, Texas for four years and spending three years in northern Alberta, Canada only strengthened his love of the outdoors and vast open spaces. (Those who know Terry find it hard to believe he lived in Canada; he’s way too much like the ectotherms he works with.) Terry attended Texas A&M University and, while at the campus on Galveston Island, he became involved with the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network, a non-profit recovery organization, and the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Head Start program. For four years, he coordinated volunteers to recover whales and dolphins stranded along the Texas coast. Although he loved these programs, his first love was tortoises, and he continues to strive for their conservation.

 

In 1994, Terry migrated westward to run the Smithsonian Institution’s Desert Tortoise Nutrition program. Over the next 11 years, Terry conducted nutritional research on desert tortoises in Nevada, California, Utah and Arizona. He said he never planned on being a botanist but studying a desert herbivore quickly changed his mind. After a brief stint running a turtle and tortoise conservation center in California, Terry came to GBI as a Research Associate helping to run the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center and coordinating the USFWS Desert Tortoise Line Distance Sampling project. In fall 2008, he stepped into the role of Associate Director, overseeing GBI operations in southern NV. He brought his knowledge of the southwest and strong relationships with project partners in the south to GBI. He continues to run the desert tortoise monitoring program, refusing to give up that which brought him to the west. While in Nevada, he fell in love with his future wife (not only the desert), had three kids, and has made southern Nevada his home.

Nathan Brown-Silveira began his conservation career immediately after graduating the University of Nevada in Reno. He has since worked with the Nevada Conservation Corps and the Research Associate Program. Currently Nathan provides fleet coordination, logistics support, and facilities upkeep for the Great Basin Institute.

Hailing from both Washington state and Nebraska, Marina McCreary received her B.S. in Rangeland Management Ecology from Chadron State College. Marina worked as a Rangeland Technician in Nebraska, North Dakota, and Idaho before coming to Reno in early 2020 for an AmeriCorps term with the Great Basin Institute. Through an interesting pandemic season, Marina loved collecting native plant seeds from across the Sierras and exploring Nevada’s public lands. Marina then served a second AmeriCorps term with Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful (KTMB) organizing volunteer litter pickups. After her term, Marina was hired on as KTMB’s Beautification and Cleanups Program Manager. This position saw Marina planning and executing the Great Community Cleanup, the Truckee River Cleanup and Christmas Tree Recycling. These events are huge productions requiring the collaboration of numerous community partners, the support of hundreds of volunteers, and management of an extensive tools and supplies inventory. Marina is thrilled to return to the GBI team, bringing with her strong inventory management and logistics skills to support GBI’s mission of promoting science through field studies programs, conservation practices, and public outreach.

 

Off the clock, Marina enjoys hosting arts and crafts nights in her home, bouncing around at dance events in town, and owning the stage at karaoke.

Brian Corcoran grew up in Northern California and attended Butte College in Oroville, where he completed the Heavy Equipment Operator Technician program. Additionally, he earned several associate degrees in Environmental Horticulture, Agriculture, Mechanized Agriculture, Animal Science, Welding, and Natural Resources. At Chico State he earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture, Land Resource Management, and Horticulture with a focus in applied field ecology. Recently, he completed his Masters of Business Administration from the Forbes School of Business and Technology at the University of Arizona Global Campus. Professionally, Brian has over twenty years of agronomic and horticultural experience and ten years of agricultural advising. In recent management roles, Brian has developed solutions to resolve complex issues by applying his experience, educational background, and outside-the-box critical thinking. Recent projects include natural resource management mitigation, plant nutrition, pest and disease control, and large commercial and industrial irrigation retrofits and repairs. Project environments have included tropical agriculture and natural resource development, commercial landscaping with a focus on water efficiency, blending native plants into designs in desert environments, and forest restoration and management. He has also worked on habitat development and soil conservation in the Plains. Brian is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys sharing his passion with others.

Marina is a graduate from UNR that loves the outdoors. Her passion for the environment and positive impact is what brought her to the Great Basin Institute. During her free time, you can find her reading a book in a hammock, enjoying quality time with her friends, or swimming in a lake. She does enjoy trips to cities all over the world, but nothing could ever beat the beautiful forest in her ‘backyard’. She is always up for an adventure, that is why she found home at GBI, where life is always moving.

Scott Sveiven brings a highly diverse background spearheading conservation and natural resource projects across a variety of ecosystems, landscapes, and countries. His executive leadership experience includes many years as the U.S. Director of a volunteer-funded biodiversity research organization, where
he led recruitment through presentations across the country to varied audiences.

Additionally, he maintained strong working relationships with research partners, with the overarching aim to organize and lead international conservation projects with teams of scientists, volunteers, and local indigenous staff in the remote rainforests of South America, documenting species diversity across a series of field camps. He further enhanced these skills working for The Nature Conservancy in a unique seasonal role as Preserve Manager on the isolated, far-flung Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge roughly 1000 miles south of Hawaii. Domestically, his previous experience includes working for the National Park Service surveying wetland plant communities in the Rockies, working as an instructor at one of the oldest forestry colleges in the country in the Adirondacks, and wildlife fieldwork with Anishinaabe colleagues on fishers and pine martens in the Chequamegon National Forest.

In 2021, he developed an experiential field course in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem to engage volunteers in surveying a large private property with important habitat corridors for the critically endangered Florida panther. Results from this work documented over 275 species, including several new county records, and culminated in a peer-reviewed publication showcasing the potential value of private lands in conservation efforts. Scott is excited to bring this experience to the critical, necessary, and invaluable work GBI is doing.

Lauren is a Hoosier by birth and received her B.S. in Public Affairs from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University, Bloomington. She first came to Reno in 2018 as an AmeriCorps VISTA serving the Northern Nevada International Center’s Refugee Resettlement program and joined the staff at the International Center to lead international exchange programs, including the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. She fell in love with the Sierras and is excited to use her program management skills to further GBI’s work in the area. Lauren enjoys spending her free time outdoors with her friends, especially bouldering, skiing, soaking in hot springs, and swimming in cold alpine lakes.

Richard comes to GBI by way of Texas, completing his Bachelor’s from Texas State University, and his Masters of Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2018.  Richard has worked extensively in the private sector supporting industry management, most recently with Verizon in the greater Reno area.  He is an avid traveler, having explored all 50 US states, 10 different countries, and has lived and explored in the Sierra foothills for the past 8 years. His combined passion for conservation and outdoor sports keeps him engaged in the organizational management at the Institute. When not working to support GBI administration, you can find Richard hiking, camping, or skiing with his spouse, Kristen, of 8 years.

Katie grew up in the northeast and earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics and Environmental Studies at Saint Michaels College in Northern Vermont. Prior to working for GBI she was a data analyst and researcher for a tech startup located in Salt Lake City. When she is not in town, you can find Katie spending time climbing, hiking with her dog named Ella, and planning her next big sailing adventure. Her favorite place in the world is mid-coast Maine and her favorite movies are Pirates of the Caribbean.

Annelies is a native of Northern Nevada and possesses a deep appreciation for the endless beauty and year-round activities available in the Reno-Tahoe region. She has woven her love for golf and the outdoors into a vibrant career in administration, marketing, and event coordination across top golf resorts in the region. Beyond her professional endeavors, Annelies likes spending time with her family, exploring new destinations through travel, and enjoying live music!

Noor is an experienced Project Coordinator with over 8+ years in project management, specializing in overseeing complex projects. Demonstrated expertise in budget management, stakeholder engagement, Recruitment and comprehensive report writing. Committed to driving positive social impact through strategic initiatives.

Michael Arkwright was born and raised in southeast Michigan. In 2015, Michael received a Bachelor’s of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in Philosophy and Political Science. After discovering a love for the forest, Michael began working in forestry by marking timber in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Michael also worked extensively as a Research Technician studying the transmission of Oak Wilt while working towards attaining a Master’s of Forestry degree from Michigan Technological University, which they completed in 2023. Michael moved to California in May of 2023 to work for GBI as a Forestry Co-Crew Lead on the Plumas National Forest, and is now serving on the Sequoia National Forest. Michael continues to develop their passion for responsible forest management and is particularly interested in ecological silviculture. In their free time, Michael enjoys hiking, cooking, listening to podcasts, playing video games, and spending time with friends.

Tyler Schroyer is a Senior Stewardship Coordinator for GBI and works on the Eldorado National Forest. He manages all GBI stewardship contracts and GBI seasonals that exist on the forest. He grew up in the Bay Area and went to Humboldt State University to receive a BS in Environmental Science and two minors. He has done several GBI jobs throughout the state of California and loves what he does for work. He likes snowboarding, tennis, archery and eating at fun events in his free time.

Chelsea joined GBI in 2024 with experience working in museums and at historic sites. She was born and raised in Florida and received both her B.A. and M.A. degrees in Classics, with a focus on ancient religions and languages, from Florida State University. While earning her M.A., Chelsea completed specialized coursework in museum studies and that was where her passion grew for working within museums and at cultural heritage sites. Prior to joining GBI, Chelsea has consistently served in public facing roles that engage the community. She served as a Park Manager for the South Carolina State Park Service, as an Interpreter within the SC Park Service before that, and has also worked in education within the museum field. Throughout her career, Chelsea has been enthusiastic about working with cultural resources, whether it be within museums, with artifact collections, or at historic sites, and using these resources for public engagement and to serve the community. In her free time, Chelsea enjoys reading, gardening, hiking with her husband, and taking care of her three dogs, Albus, Ollie, and Lupin.

Karen Supak is the Cultural Resource Program Manager at GBI. Raised in southern Mississippi, Karen completed her A.A. in Cultural Anthropology with Departmental Honors in Archaeology at Merced College before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, to complete her B.A. in Anthropology. Her field school was completed through Harvard University and the National Museums of Kenya at Koobi Fora, on the shores of Lake Turkana. While in college, Karen developed a strong interest in archaeology, which she pursued professionally immediately following graduation.

 

Over the course of the next 30 years, Karen has participated in all aspects of cultural resource management in the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and Basin and Range regions of the United States. She has participated extensively in all aspects of archaeological fieldwork from project planning to agency reporting in academic, museum, government, and private corporate settings. Karen has developed skills in prehistoric and historic archaeology, including critical issues analysis, site survey, NRHP evaluation and mitigation, human and faunal osteological recovery and analysis, archaeobotanical recovery and analysis, and analysis of site taphonomy. She has also successfully completed training in archaeological damage assessment analysis, reporting, and testimony. Her experience in human osteological analysis has led to her participation in NAGPRA projects at several academic institutions and federal agencies. In addition to her specific project efforts, Karen served as a member of both the Committee on Ethics (2011-2015) and the Public Education Committee (2013 -2015) for the Society for American Archaeology (SAA), and has presented research results at state, regional, and national levels. She is also active in local and statewide volunteer activities that focus on public education and awareness of archaeological and other cultural resources.

 

When she isn’t at work, Karen can be found spending time outdoors as often as possible, hiking, taking photographs, and spending time with her grown children and new grandson in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains as often as she can.

James is a lifelong Las Vegas resident and native Nevadan. James grew up in North Las Vegas and attended Rancho High School. James attended UNLV, studying Business Management and Anthropology. James worked as a Retail Purchasing Buyer after college for a local furniture store and then eventually worked as a Museum Curator for many years before coming to GBI.

Hannah Winans holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management and started working with GBI in 2024 as the Administrative Coordinator for the Cultural Resources Program. She was born in Minden, Nevada and was raised in southern Michigan. Hannah is passionate about exploring the mountains through backpacking, skiing, and hiking. Her pups, Barney and Ginger, always accompany her on her adventures and she loves coming home to her cats, Mouse and Baby, and her three chickens.

Isabelle Sengupta was raised in the bustling San Francisco Bay Area, spending time in the nearby Santa Cruz beaches and mountains. She moved to Boulder, Colorado to attend university and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in anthropology, with a focus on American Southwest archaeology. Immediately after her last exam, Isabelle headed out to attend an archeological excavation with tribal members in the Gila National Forest. She further went on to do coordination work for the San Jose Egyptian Museum where she had interned during college. Later on she then relocated to Reno, Nevada and found GBI, where she now works as a Cultural Resources Program Coordinator. Isabelle enjoys caring for her backyard garden where she grows anything the bees like. Come fall, one can find Isabelle pickling, jamming, baking, and otherwise preserving the summer abundance; when the outside plants begin to wither, she focuses her attention on her vast houseplant collection. From birdwatching to amphibian and insect identification, Isabelle is fascinated by all things thriving in nature.

Anna Marie Kelly grew up along the Northern California coast surrounded by art and beautiful redwoods. Her upbringing cultivated a deep passion for art and environmental preservation. Anna received two Bachelor’s degrees from Sonoma State University in History and Art History. She subsequently earned a Master’s degree from San Francisco State University in Museum Studies. While pursuing her graduate studies, Anna worked for the Bay Area Discovery Museum and several Bay Area art galleries. These experiences allowed Anna to collaborate with community partners and local artists in developing unique and inclusive exhibits and public programs. Anna is excited to apply her skills in Museum Education and Public Programs in her new role as Cultural Resources Program Coordinator.

 

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and visiting jazz clubs, rock concerts, and art museums.

Growing up in Nevada, Allie has always loved the desert landscape and exploring wild places. After earning a B.S. in Environmental Science, she started with GBI in 2018 as an Ecological Monitoring Tech and continued in 2019 as a Lead. In 2020, Allie moved into her current position as the Ecological Monitoring Program Manager in partnership with Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). Outside of botanizing at work, Allie can be found growing, cooking, and eating plants.

Brittany was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and a minor in Business Admin. After graduating Brittany travelled the country and ventured abroad, working seasonal jobs and backpacking new countries. For three years Brittany worked as a Wildland Firefighter out of the Willamette National Forest, in Oregon, as well as the Browns Park Wildlife Refuge, in Western Colorado. She most recently spent time working as an EMT in Orange County, CA, prior to joining GBI as an Ecological Monitoring Crew Lead for our USGS Desert Tortoise Habitat Quality crew. Brittany is passionate about conservation and is endlessly intrigued by Nevada’s wildlife. In her free time, you can find Brittany hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring off-road trails with her partner David and her fuzzy fruit bat (dog) Ember.

Shannon Murphy grew up on the coast of North Carolina. Her journey with the Great Basin Institute started in 2020 as an Ecological Monitoring Technician in the Richfield, UT field office. During the winter season, she worked in Oregon doing Salmon habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, and bare root planting of native species. She returned to GBI for two following seasons as a Crew Lead implementing AIM protocols. She gained experience working in an office setting in her time as a Recruitment Coordinator during winter of 2022 and moved into her current role as an Ecological Monitoring Project Manager in January of 2023. Shannon is excited for the growth opportunities this position will offer her.

Cienna (CJ) Ajir grew up in Santa Cruz, California surrounded by the beautiful redwood forests. She majored in Conservation and Resource Studies at U.C Berkeley and took classes in the business school with hopes of learning how to manage a non-profit. After graduating, she moved to Reno to work on a trail crew with Nevada Conservation Corps. She then moved to the Ecological Monitoring program as a technician, and continued the next year as a crew lead. 

 

In her free time, Cienna enjoys aerial arts, creative writing, and horror novels. She is thankful her positions at GBI have given her wonderful friends and housemates.

Jesse grew up in the Midwest and graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in biology in 2020. He joined GBI’s Ecological Monitoring Program in 2022 as a Field Technician, progressed into the Crew Lead role, and is now the program’s Recruitment Coordinator. Passionate about conserving our public lands, he is excited to continue contributing to GBI’s mission. In his free time, Jesse likes lifting weights, collecting rocks, camping, and enjoying good food with family and friends.

Libby Wilson joined GBI in early 2023. She was born and raised in Northern California, making the move to Northern Nevada in 2002. Her journey into the world of conservation began over a decade ago at an energy conservation organization, delivering innovative energy management resources for clients throughout the nation. In her role as Director of Program Services she established a dynamic history in professional development, strategic implementation, improving technical user experience, and company collaboration. Her hands-on approach in leading the programs support and implementation teams allowed for the promotion and administration of educational programs in energy and water efficiency to schools and households throughout the county.

In the workplace, Libby uses her positive attitude and energy to encourage others to work tirelessly towards their success knowing, from her own experiences, that it always seems impossible until it’s done. When she has free time, she likes to read, travel, and spend her time outdoors with her husband, daughter and quirky fur-baby Apollo who will skillfully take you on a guilt trip until his next outing.

Vince LaPlante is an established trail builder having constructed some of the most complex multi-use trail systems in the intermountain west. Before joining GBI in 2013, he worked over two decades with the U.S. Forest Service and four years with the National Park Service, inventorying, designing, and constructing some of the most scenic trails in the Western United States. As Trails Coordinator for the Nevada Conservation Corps he finds satisfaction in teaching the next generation of trail builders how to construct recreational trails in a sustainable and durable manner. When not at work, you can find Vince enjoying the remote backcountry of the Sierra Nevadas.

Danielle Ryan joined GBI in late 2023. She was born and raised in Reno, NV. She spent most her summers enjoying the beautiful lake in Tahoe and mountains as much as she could. She started her conservation journey in 2018 with Energy Efficiency Conservation Programs as a Program Support Specialist. She loved the impacts it made on schools and students by providing them curriculum based material on how to save water and energy. As the Recruiting Coordinator for the NCC program she’s excited to find individuals we are ready to start their journey in helping Nevada’s public lands and community.

 

In her spare time, Danielle enjoys reading, painting and traveling to different places around the world.

Diana Kaskie joined GBI in April of 2024. She was born in Romania and, as a military brat, lived in many different countries and states. She moved to Reno, NV in 2015 to attend college at the University of Nevada, Reno. She has a Bachelors of Science in Biology with a minor in Community Health Science. She is new to the conservation scene, but is eager to learn more about it. In her free time, she loves trying new baking recipes, spending time outdoors with her family, traveling to visit friends/family in other states, knitting, reading, listening to music, going to concerts, paddle boarding in Folsom Lake, and always looking for the next adventure that life has in store.

Raised in the foothills outside of Yosemite, John Ogle grew up in a small town on a 640 acre ranch. Early memories for John involve skiing in the Eastern Sierras, exploring the mountains of the Sonora Pass, school field trips to Yosemite, and exploring his own backyard of rolling hills, oak forests, and creeks/rivers. His professional background quickly mimicked his appreciation for the outdoors when he joined the Greater Valley Conservation Corps as a natural resource technician. He was a pro ski patroller for four years and practiced as an EMT, and was an acting EMT/firefighter on a Forest Service Helitack Module. After his time with the forest service, John wanted a more proactive approach to preventing wildfire and promoting healthy forest ecology. This led John to join GBI as a crew lead for their first Rx Burn crew. After the conclusion of their first year, the burn crew proved to be successful, and he now desires to find ways in which the program can expand to provide a valuable service to more forests and communities.

Joining GBI in May 2021, Mark supports GBI NEPA project coordination across Region 5 of the US Forest Service. Mark has over 33 years of experience providing environmental consulting, documentation, and training to geotechnical, civil engineering, and archaeological firms in both the public and private sectors. Since 1987, Mark has conducted numerous environmental compliance projects in the areas of exploration, drilling, mine development, water exploration, and preconstruction and construction of infrastructure for clients throughout the western United States. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Kent State University, a Master in Education from Vanderbilt University, and separate Master of Science degrees in Environmental & Natural Resource Science and Land Use Planning from the University of Nevada, Reno, where he is now a member of the adjunct faculty. At the university, Mark teaches Environmental Policy and Law creating an upper-division course on NEPA that he has been teaching since 2006.

Kate Walker, a graduate of the University of Nevada Reno, started her career in the Great Basin and Sierras with the Forest Service in 2001. Her experience working with multiple land management agencies over her career ranges from writing environmental planning documents, to surveying for and managing rare and invasive plant populations in support of projects such as forest health, hazardous fuels reduction, and developed recreation. She has experience collaborating with interagency teams on ecological restoration projects, and writing rapid habitat assessment protocols for state-wide management planning. Kate is excited to be working with the Great Basin Institute in supporting their mission to protect the natural and cultural resources essential to sustaining our health and quality of life.

Preston Alden has worked on wildlife research and conservation projects for over 15 years. He has also served as Program Director at Gateway Mountain Center, a nonprofit that integrates the natural sciences with outdoor adventure experiences. Preston earned a M.S. in Ecology from U.C. Davis in 2017 and his B.S. in Ecology and Wildlife at Western State Colorado University in 2009. In the intervening years between his degrees he worked on, and managed, a number of remote wildlife research projects including Channel Island Fox biology with CSU Fort Collins and Humboldt State University, as well as the Sierra Nevada Red Fox project with UC Davis and the CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife. Preston brings both his technical expertise and passion for public lands conservation to his work with the Basin and Range Forestry and NEPA Services Programs at the Great Basin Institute. He is currently focused on post-fire restoration projects throughout the Sierra Nevada with a particular interest in Pacific Fisher and Sierra Nevada Red Fox.

When Preston is not working he can be found exploring the mountains climbing, splitboarding, and backpacking with his girlfriend and dog. He also continues to read widely on natural sciences topics.

Tyler Allen graduated from West Virginia State University receiving a BA degree in History with a focus on Industrial History in the Appalachian Region. He then received his Masters of Science for Industrial Archaeology from Michigan Technological University. There he studied and wrote his thesis on logging camps and mining operations. Additionally, Tyler has continued his education at West Virginia University to receive a GIS certificate given his interest in remote sensing, GIS applications, and spatial science. Since graduate school, Tyler has worked as a Park Service Historian with the Historical American Engineering Report (HAER), but has spent most of his professional career working for the Forest Service as an Archaeologist.  Tyler started his Forest Service career working on the Daniel Boone National Forest and then went out west to the Lassen National Forest. Most recently, he was the Assistant District Archaeologist out of Eagle Lake. Additionally, he has worked extensively as a Fire Archaeologist and Resource Advisor throughout Northern California. Outside of work Tyler enjoys spending time outdoors with his partner Megan, mushroom hunting, hiking, and traveling.

Kelly Barrett joined GBI in 2023, bringing with her over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit and environmental programming sector.

 

Prior to joining GBI, Kelly served as the Division Director with American Conservation Experience, collaborating with partners such as BLM, USFS, USBR, and state/nonprofit organizations to manage and support programming for the individual placement program, as well as the Assessment, Inventory and Monitoring (AIM) Program and the Direct Hire Authority (DHA) Program. Kelly also served in the AmeriCorps NCCC program, supporting crew-based projects in the north central and then the pacific regions. Additionally, she gained valuable experience as part of a conservation crew in Southeast Alaska. In 2021, she earned her Masters of Environmental Management (Integrative Public Land Management) from Western Colorado University, combining her professional and educational backgrounds. Most recently, her academic pursuits drove her to broaden her professional experience, focusing on sustainability and clean air initiatives while serving as a co-Director/Sr. Manager for Utah Clean Cities, where she actively contributed to adaptive management and resiliency building throughout Utah and the Intermountain West.

 

Outside the office, Kelly can be found hiking and exploring our public lands with her husband, dogs, and their trusty Jeep.

Deanna Stark started her journey with the conservation corps world in 2008 after graduating from Auburn University. Her first corps experience took her to TN doing environmental education, then out to Cumberland Islands NS as an archivist, and finally to a year long stint in one of the hottest and lowest places on the planet – Death Valley NP. Her corps days paved the way to work as a seasonal interpretive ranger at several National Parks. The most notable of which was a summer season at Carlsbad Caverns NP where she spent her days 800ft underground leading cave tours and had the good fortune to meet her husband. Deanna went on to spend several years as a contract and procurement specialist in local government before finding her way back to the corps world. Deanna comes to GBI from ACE where she managed Western Partnerships with the National Park Service. A relatively new resident to the Tahoe/ Nevada area, Deanna can be found paddle boarding on a lake most weekends with husband, two children, and two dogs in tow!

Emily holds a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning with a minor in both Sociology and Sustainable Systems from Utah State University. She started her career in conservation working as a trail crew member with the Nevada Conservation Corps. After graduation she worked as a Landscape Designer in Salt Lake City, Utah but eventually found her way back to GBI working as a Research Associate Program Coordinator for their Northern Region. Outside of work she enjoys being active, spending time outdoors, and exploring new hobbies. She is passionate about protecting and studying landscapes in the West and is excited about the opportunity to help others advance their careers in the field of environmental conservation.

Kaelyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation with a minor in Rangeland Management (2020) from the University of Nevada, Reno. Kaelyn started her career with GBI back in 2018 when she served with NCC, following with a Research Associate position in 2020 as a Bat Monitoring Technician. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Kaelyn moved up to Reno in 2013. Since then, she has explored the many joys of being outside and growing her family. She enjoys hanging out with her husband and watching their baby grow crazy fast, as well going on hikes, backpacking trips, and spending time with their friends and family.

James Cash completed his undergraduate studies in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences at Texas A&M University and his Master’s degree in Natural Resources at Auburn University. He has worked a variety of field jobs including restoration work with NCC, amphibian surveys with USFS in the Sierra Nevada, general wildlife monitoring with BLM in Wyoming, small mammal surveys with NEON in Alaska, and aerial wildlife surveys in multiple states. Beyond field work, he specializes in GIS and data management. He has worked with the Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program for several years with responsibilities including recruitment, training, logistical planning, and data management.

 

In his free time, James enjoys hiking and backpacking, and has recently been diving into new outdoor pursuits including climbing, skiing, fly fishing, and packrafting.

Miles Carlile was born and raised in Northern California. While studying Environmental Science at the University of Nevada, Reno, Miles won multiple academic research awards, funding his independently-led study on invertebrate biodiversity in the Shasta River. Simultaneously, he was a research technician in a botany lab on campus, contributing to a seed-focused local adaptation study. In addition, Miles spent a season performing raptor occupancy surveys with the Institute for Bird Populations before receiving his degree in Environmental Science. Prior to joining GBI as a Program Coordinator, Miles worked a second season with the Institute for Bird Populations as a Wildlife Biologist. Miles is passionate about ecosystem restoration, wildlife conservation, native seed research, and wilderness preservation. When Miles is out of the office, he can be found exploring the High Sierra, snowboarding, playing basketball, or spending time with friends and family.

Ariannah started working with GBI at the Las Vegas office in Spring of 2024 as a Program Coordinator for the Research Associate Program. She has several years of experience working in the environmental field as an educator or in some type of coordination role for environmental non-profits.

 

In 2021, she obtained her Masters in Biology with a focus in community-based conservation through Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Her background has helped her become incredibly passionate about connecting people of all backgrounds to nature and ensuring there will be long lasting stewards for this wonderful world.

 

During her free time, Ariannah can be found photographing wildlife, hiking, playing board games or video games, and enjoying quality time with her partner and two cats.

Miranda Sanford (she/they) joined the Research Associate Program in June 2024. After earning their degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences in 2017 at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Miranda traveled west for an AmeriCorps VISTA position at an environmental nonprofit in Reno, Nevada, and was later hired on as the organization’s Development Director. Since then, she’s worked in higher education and at nonprofits in roles related to student development and success, DEIB initiatives, program development and management, recruitment, training, and community outreach. Miranda also earned her M.A. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2021. Outside of work, you can find Miranda spending time outdoors hiking, birding, camping, running, and cycling, DIY renovating their 1940s home with her partner, and trying to bake a decent cake at altitude.

Lindsey St John joined GBI in June of 2024. Originally from Texas, she relocated to Nevada in 2020 with her partner and dogs. Having a background in recruiting, she is excited and eager to combine her love of the outdoors and professional experience into one at GBI. Outside of work her time is filled with bouldering, hiking with her dogs, and making stained glass.

Vincent Coccia AKA Coccia is a Program Coordinator for the Resource Associate Program. Coccia is an outgoing person who love spending time with his wife and pets. Coccia loves movies, karaoke and spending time on his makeshift catamaran. In Coccia’s mind communication is key, give him an email and call and he would love to get back to you as soon as he can.

Gabriel, originally from the Pacific Northwest, fell in love with Nevada in 2008, when she moved to Boulder City, NV. After graduating from Southern Oregon University, her outdoor career started as an Oregon State Park Ranger and grew when she became a seasonal National Park Ranger at Lake Mead NRA. In 2013, she worked with a nonprofit organization – partnering with the National Park Service – as an Operations Manager, overseeing retail and visitor center operations in 10 National Parks, covering California and Nevada. Then, she worked with Clark County Wetlands Park, in Las Vegas, to open a Nature Center with a retail store.

 

Joining GBI in 2021 as the Visitor Center Administrator, completes the circle; she worked with GBI in 2013 as a Research Associate and looks forward to helping GBI expand their outreach. Gabriel, her husband, and their dog enjoy exploring nature and enjoy cheering on their favorite team, the Las Vegas Raiders.

In 2010, Erin earned a B.A. in journalism from Penn State University. After graduating, she decided to explore and moved to Mexico, where she lived for a year teaching English. Erin then began a career in adventure travel, working as a North and Central American tour guide for eight seasons. During that time, she was also a freelance writer, English teacher and wildlife educator, and chose Reno as her homebase in 2015. In 2019 she moved to New Jersey to oversee the east coast operations for a destination management company. Two years later, she returned to Reno-Tahoe and worked for the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and Tallac Historic Site in South Lake Tahoe. In 2022, she joined GBI as visitor services administrator of those sites. Erin also completed her M.S. in park and resource management in 2022, and is hopefully done moving back and forth across the country.

With a degree in Early Care and Education, Ashley Morales taught Preschool for several years in South Carolina before joining AmeriCorps and moving to Reno. Ashley has been working for The Great Basin Institute since 2022, supporting Visitor Services by teaching and developing GBI’s educational programs and Exploration Camps. As the Education Coordinator, Ashley serves local schools and communities, hosting field trips, camps, and public events at Galena Creek Regional Park. Ashley enjoys art projects and cooking new foods. Her passion for teaching and building environmental stewardship in others drives her to connect with and encourage a love for learning in everyone she meets.