• Jessica Green

    BOARD CHAIR

    “Everyone should have access to the outdoors, nature heals, it makes the world a better place.”

  • Ann Barr-Gillespie

    VICE CHAIR

    “Protecting places like Tryon provides many species a place to call home and spending time in nature keeps us all healthy. “

  • Jason Stroman

    BOARD MEMBER

    “I look forward to Tryon’s vision of making this cherished urban forest a place of refuge, healing, and learning for all communities.”

  • Joe Buttafuoco

    BOARD MEMBER

    "I am inspired by the thoughtful and talented team that cares for the park and builds community and connection to this special natural place. I am honored to help with these important efforts."

  • Mika Barrett

    BOARD MEMBER

    “Increasing access, inclusion, and representation in the outdoors for underserved communities is my passion.”

  • Terry Griffin

    BOARD TREASURER

    “The opportunity to ensure that the trails are well maintained and see that others can enjoy our little patch of wilderness.”

  • Jamie Newsome

    BOARD MEMBER

    “I joined the board to create ways to make the park more accessible to other communities.”

  • Melissa Peterman

    BOARD MEMBER

    "Providing access to nature and outdoor education are the best ways to ensure that this special place is preserved for future generations."

  • Styles Smith

    BOARD SECRETARY

    “Tryon is a place and a community where we learn, build connections, and respect nature and each other.”

  • Danika James Brayboy

    BOARD MEMBER

    Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” I joined the Board to connect communities of color to this amazing place and support Tryon in realizing it’s world changing vision.

  • Susie Peterson

    BOARD MEMBER

    “Friends of Tryon Creek is modeling thoughtful and inclusive programming in a way that brings me hope and joy.”

  • Robina Ingram Rich

    BOARD MEMBER

    Tryon Creek Peaceful, not quiet (Birdsong. Park Creek Bridge) A myriad of greens Walk. Listen. Breathe.

  • Stone Hudson

    BOARD MEMBER

    “Tryon Creek has a rich history. To be able to help share that with the community is truly humbling.”

  • Monica McAllister

    BOARD MEMBER

    “I am excited to be part of Tryon Creek's work to create an inclusive space that connects all communities with nature.”

  • Gabe Sheoships

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    “Youth are branches soaring to new heights, grounded by the deep roots of their ancestors.”

  • Jonathan Hayden

    EDUCATION PROGRAMS MANAGER

    “Tryon is a second home where I find peace, comfort, and a place to grow. “

  • Queenaly Tran

    OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

    “I love hearing stories about how everyone is connected to Tryon Creek and what this park means to them. “

  • Amy Stout

    COMMUNITY ENGAGMENT COORDINATOR

    “At Tryon, I enjoy connecting with others through a shared curiosity of nature. “

  • Marta Scales

    EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

    “Tryon is a beautiful place that brings me closer to an amazing group of people.”

  • Betty Bryant

    EDUCATION COORDINATOR

    “Tryon is truly a special place to learn and grow with community and the natural world.“

  • Tra Phan

    DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

    “ I hope that my work will have an impact as remarkable as Tryon has with everyone who’s walked through it.”

  • Nanda Ramos

    RESTORATION PROGRAM COORDINATOR

    “Tryon is a place where I find rejuvenation and solace.”

  • Lili Yazzie

    GREEN LEADERS COORDINATOR

    “Forging a connection with the environment is one of the best ways to truly know yourself and your community. Working at Tryon is a vital part of that connection for me”

  • James Neale

    DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

    “Natural places, like Tryon, are sacred and need to be protected and honored.”

  • Joseph Pearson

    CULTURAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATOR

    “I am passionate to inspire learning the skills of our ancestors, and lifeways of our non-human relatives.”