Staff and Trustees

Bettina Ring, Virginia State Director

Bettina assumed her role in April 2023, coming to TNC from a long and distinguished career in conservation and public service. She previously served as the chief sustainability and diversity officer with the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), providing leadership on strategic initiatives related to sustainability and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, as well as leveraging SFI’s scale to drive meaningful change in the forest and conservation sector through collaboration and nature-based solutions. Bettina also served for nine months as the Interim Chief Conservation Officer with SFI.

Bettina is a former Virginia secretary of agriculture and forestry and former Virginia state forester. She was the first woman appointed to both positions.

In 2018, she was appointed to serve as the fourth secretary of agriculture and forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia, working to build two of Virginia’s largest private industries while also protecting the environment and strengthening local communities. Prior to her appointment as secretary, Bettina served as state forester. The Virginia native began her career with the Virginia Department of Forestry and held numerous leadership positions in addition to state forester—including deputy forester and the agency’s first chief of urban and community forestry—during her 18 years with the agency.

“I am honored, energized and inspired by the opportunity to work with The Nature Conservancy’s passionate and committed team to build on their tremendous legacy of conservation leadership in Virginia and beyond. TNC's world-class programs, vast network of dedicated volunteers and supporters and track record of well-respected science and innovative partnerships are what the world needs now more than ever to build a brighter future for both people and the planet."

Bill Kittrell, Deputy State Director

Bill has been with TNC for 30 years. His duties as Virginia’s Deputy State Director include development of overall conservation strategy for the chapter, management of its conservation programs and development of specific high-risk strategies that achieve big impacts. 

"I get to go to work every day knowing that my contribution will save something for the next generation.”

Nikki Rovner, Associate State Director

Nikki works to foster strong partnerships with government agencies and environmental organizations, while advocating for TNC’s policy priorities with state and federal decision makers. Her goal is for every elected official to recognize stewardship of our natural resources as a core function of government. In addition to leading Virginia’s Government Relations team, Nikki oversees the chapter’s Chesapeake Bay work and the Virginia Aquatic Resources Trust Fund.

"Conservation is my passion. I feel incredibly lucky that my career centers on learning about and advocating for the natural world.” 

Thomas Colbert, Director of Operations

Tom works with our Operations Team to help ensure the chapter has the people and financial resources needed to achieve our priorities.

We have a knowledgeable, dedicated and engaged staff and I am inspired to do my best to help them in their work.

Judy Dunscomb, Senior Conservation Scientist

Judy’s work focuses on the intersection of policy and science. In her more than 28 years with TNC, Judy has worked extensively in the areas of strategic conservation and business planning, fire ecology and operations, freshwater flow protection, habitat stewardship and restoration, GIS and impacts from conventional and renewable energy development.

"TNC gives me a chance to work across disciplines and other divides to protect the things we all want: clean air, clean water and safe places to play." 

Sam Lindblom, Director of Landscape Conservation

Sam began his career with TNC in 1995, with a focus on terrestrial forest restoration and has led landscape level fire management across Virginia. In his current role, Sam facilitates information and knowledge exchange across the chapter's landscapes and cross-boundary conservation teams, fostering collaboration with the goal of achieving the greatest conservation outcomes.

Ann Nallo, Director of Marketing and Communications

Ann joined the chapter in June 2023, leading a communications team that is committed to telling stories that help spread awareness around Virginia’s natural beauty, and the incredible TNC staff who are helping to conserve these lands and improve biodiversity. 

"Whether I’m out in a forest or standing on a shoreline, I often feel a swell of gratitude that I am able to experience the calmness and beauty of nature. I hope our work inspires others to join our cause in some way, and to gain an even deeper appreciation of all that’s around us."

Blair Smyth, Allegheny Highlands Program Director

Blair leads our efforts in the Allegheny Highlands, a key part of TNC’s six-state Central Appalachians Program, directing land protection and forest and habitat restoration efforts, including our work to return fire to Warm Springs Mountain’s oak and pine communities.

“I enjoy getting to work at a larger scale and having a broader impact. Collaborating with partners allows us to work together to achieve lasting impacts and implement strategies like prescribed fire at a landscape level.”

Eric Homan, Restoration Technician

Eric's work is focused on maintaining and restoring connectivity and diversity on the landscape, restoring healthy and functional forests in the Allegheny Highlands through the implementation of fire, and protecting and maintaining Warm Springs Mountain Preserve for habitat and public access.

"I enjoy spending my time outdoors and working to enhance and protect the living world around me. It is rewarding to watch how the forest responds to what we do."

Jean Lorber, Conservation Scientist

Jean uses his forestry and forest ecology background on projects ranging from land protection to conservation planning. Currently, he provides scientific and analytical capacity to the Allegheny Highlands Program, focused on Appalachian forest restoration.

“I love working in the Appalachians because of the sheer volume of life it holds. In the same hike, I can find 10 salamander species, 50 birds and 100 wildflowers. Working to keep that diversity around is an honor and a privilege.”

Zoe McGee, Program Coordinator

Zoe joined the Allegheny Highlands team in 2021 after working two seasons as the Dave Tice Science Technician. Her role encompasses many areas of the program's work, including prescribed fire and avian and forest structure monitoring, as well as efforts to integrate the 600-acre Hobby Horse Farm property, donated to TNC in 2022.

"I love that I get to support multiple facets of our program. I feel proud being a part of the hard work that staff, partners and volunteers have put in to protecting this beautiful mountain and land along the Central Appalachians."

Laurel Schablein, Conservation Coordinator 

Laurel collaborates with our diverse set of partners to achieve the Allegheny Highland Program’s large scale restoration and monitoring goals, including working with fire as a tool to achieve healthy mountain landscapes.

“Every day is different and every time I set foot on the lands we support, I feel a renewed sense of awe in these mountains.”

Brad Kreps, Clinch Valley Program Director

Brad leads our community-based conservation program in southwest Virginia and northeastern Tennessee that has helped conserve more than 200,000 acres of critical natural habitat in one of North America’s biodiversity hotspots.

“I believe deeply in TNC’s mission and our collaborative approach that seeks to build bridges and broaden the relevancy of conservation to people across all walks of life. The Central Appalachians are home and I love both the people and the incredible biodiversity of our landscapes.”

Braven Beaty, Ph.D., Stewardship Ecologist

Braven collaborates with a range of partners to enhance the ecological integrity of stream systems in the Appalachian region, particularly the Clinch and Powell Rivers, to restore the globally significant populations of native freshwater mussels, fish and crayfish. Braven shares his expertise beyond the Clinch Valley, working on regional, national and international projects related to freshwater and mining.

“My work is an almost ideal mix of applied science, research and art. It provides the opportunity to make a lasting contribution toward better natural communities for future generations—like my granddaughter’s—interact with academic leaders and wrestle with complex and challenging issues for which there are no easy solutions.”

Link Elmore, Restoration Coordinator

Link joined TNC in June 2022. His efforts will focus on Abandoned Mine Land (AML) reclamation and restoration, engaging with state agencies in VA, KY and TN and bringing geospatial insights and solutions to projects aimed at restoring ecological vitality to mined lands in TNC’s Cumberland Forest properties and enhancing economic vitality in Appalachian coalfield communities.

“Our world has some big challenges that are not easily overcome. I believe my biggest potential impact is to use a geographic perspective to help solve problems. Wherever I go, I try to be the geographer in the room.”

Ronald Lambert, Land Protection Manager

Ronald is part of the Clinch Valley Program team and has been with TNC since 1996. Based in Tennessee, he works across state borders to build relationships and support projects in VA, TN and KY, including land protection associated with USDA Farm Bill programs and community outreach and education efforts.

“I get to see immediate and long-lasting results of on-the-ground implementation. It is rewarding to work with farmers to protect their most valuable commodities, soil and water.”

Sherrie Leab, Clinch Valley Program Office Manager

Sherrie provides a full range of operational and program support to the Clinch Valley Program, a hot spot for biodiversity in southwest Virginia. She is involved in a variety of projects including serving on committees that benefit local communities and assisting with the Clinch Valley Program’s Conservation Forestry program and CF Highlands property.

“I enjoy working with people that are passionate and appreciate nature.” 

Nick Proctor, Community Outreach Manager

Nick joined the Clinch Valley team in February 2022. He leads the program’s outreach efforts, including community support and capacity building and volunteer recruitment and stewardship activities aimed at connecting people to nature as a cultural and economic asset worth protecting for generations to come.    

"Developing meaningful relationships takes time. I enjoy having the opportunity to create deeply rooted connections with our local Clinch Valley communities and partners to enhance stewardship of the natural environment in the face of global climate challenges."

Mark Rogers, Central Appalachians Forest Manager

Mark joined TNC in 2021 and brings more than 25 years of professional forester experience to the Clinch Valley Program. He directs forest management and operations across TNC’s 253,000-acre Cumberland Forest, a Forest Stewardship Council® FSC®-C008922 Project spanning Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, to ensure long-term sustainability, health, and resiliency.

“I love having the opportunity to influence the health and sustainable direction of our forest resources for future generations to utilize and enjoy. It’s an honor to get the chance to leave something better than I found it on a large scale.”

Meg Short, Land Protection Program Manager

Meg joined the chapter in February 2022. She brings a background coordinating management of threatened and endangered species to the Clinch Valley Program, where she will be working with regional, state and community partners to help conserve some of the most important places for biodiversity and climate resilience in Southwest Virginia.

"The properties that we work toward protecting are valuable for many reasons. I enjoy meeting the landowners and learning their history. I am honored to be a part of preserving these important places."

Kate Wilke, Fisheries Scientist

Kate's work is focused on protecting marine habitats for the benefit of both people and nature. She works with fishery managers to create regulations that promote efficient, sustainable harvest of fresh seafood. She also addresses the challenges of identifying the most important—and vulnerable habitats—and designing rules to protect them for the benefit of the fish and marine life that rely on them for food, protection and reproduction.

"One of my favorite parts of my job is working with people who have spent their entire lives earning a living from the ocean. Their success comes from an intimate knowledge and respect for the ocean, and the most rewarding conservation is created together with these partners."

Brendan Runde, Ph.D., Marine Scientist

Brendan joined TNC in February 2022 following a post-doctoral fellowship with NOAA Fisheries at their Beaufort, NC lab. His work focuses on promoting environmentally responsible use of the oceans by diverse stakeholders in areas such as offshore wind and participating in TNC’s nationwide effort to strategically improve fisheries data collection and use to help ensure sustainable populations.

“TNC is a respected contributor to regional, national, and global marine fisheries policy. It is exciting and enjoyable to work for an organization that has such a powerful voice and strong reputation.”

Karen Johnson, VARTF Program Director

Karen joined TNC in 2004 and leads the Virginia Aquatic Resources Trust Fund (VARTF), a mitigation program that offsets impacts to stream and wetland resources throughout Virginia, using TNC science and priority setting to pursue projects in ecologically significant areas.

“It’s uplifting to see how sites can be healed and restored even after decades of human impact and use. I feel like I’m making a difference.”

Chris DuBois, Restoration Coordinator

Chris works with contractors on our stream and wetland mitigations sites to conduct site management activities including invasive species management and native tree planting and seeding. The goal of these efforts is to minimize, mitigate or replace impacts to a disturbed site to help it become a healthy, native ecosystem.

"I love having the opportunity to get into the field and explore the diverse landscapes across Virginia. It’s rewarding to provide tangible assistance to an impacted site and see it once again becomes a healthy ecosystem."

Diane Frisbee, Stream Project Manager

Diane’s work focuses on ensuring the long-term resilience of Virginia’s streams and wetlands. She manages the Trust Fund’s stream restoration program, from identifying new projects and managing design and implementation to overseeing ecological monitoring and maintenance to ensure project success.

“I love being able to see the impact of our work in a very real and tangible way. Being able to play a key role in transitioning a site from a degraded state to a heathy and functioning stream ecosystem is very rewarding.”

Brian van Eerden, Virginia Pinelands Program Director

Brian manages TNC’s conservation work across the southeastern Coastal Plain and leads the chapter’s effort to re-establish longleaf pine forests to Virginia as part of a nine-state effort to restore one of the most species-rich ecosystems in North America. In his more than twenty years with TNC, Brian’s areas of focus have come to include longleaf pine and floodplain forest ecosystems, fire ecology and management, native plant conservation, peatland restoration, land conservation funding and land protection.

“TNC operates on a large scale. It’s not only about dreaming big but also about making sure those dreams are relevant now and into the future."  

Bobby Clontz, Southeast Stewardship and Fire Program Manager

Bobby has been involved with TNC since 2003, joining the Virginia chapter full time in 2007. His primary focus is the restoration of flora and fauna, like red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species and indicator of the healthy fire-maintained pine forests that once dominated southeast Virginia—something that is still quite rare in the commonwealth.

“Working with the close-knit fire partnership, introducing others to the wonders of this ecosystem and seeing the results of our efforts is very rewarding to me.”

Jill Bieri, Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve Program Director

Jill brings more than 30 years of experience in marine science and environmental education to her role as director of the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve where she leads a staff of twelve professionals working to protect, restore and sustain the barrier islands, coastal lagoon and bayside ecosystems of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

"Virginia’s Eastern Shore is a rare, conserved wilderness with communities that are friendly and full of character and culture. I feel privileged to live and work here."

Mario Balitbit, Migratory Bird Specialist

A lifelong bird enthusiast, Mario joined TNC full time in December 2022 after working as a summer seasonal shorebird technician. As part of VVCR's Migratory Bird Program, Mario assists with our long-term monitoring efforts of many shore/waterbird species—including willets, American oystercatchers and whimbrels—found breeding, wintering or migrating along the Barrier Islands system. Mario also coordinates our Island Steward volunteer program, engaging visitors on barrier island policies to protect beach nesting birds.

"I enjoy being out almost daily alongside the species we study—VVCR's marshes and barrier islands are my typical office space. Being in the field pushes me to stay curious and develop a deep appreciation for the natural systems that make our biological and societal communities."

Susan Bates, Ph.D., Coastal Science Program Manager

Susan leads VVCR’s Coastal Resilience Program. Her work involves engaging with partners to develop tools and strategies for informing coastal resilience decisions and projects, demonstrating the value of nature-based solutions and building community relationships. Susan holds a Master of Science degree in Oceanography and a Doctorate in Climate Dynamics and has more than 20 years of experience in these fields.

Libby Bieri, Marine Field Technician

Libby joined TNC in July 2023. In her role she assists with VVCR's oyster, eelgrass and bay scallop restoration and monitoring efforts, part of a Marine Habitat Restoration Team that is refining existing techniques and implementing new ones to protect unique coastal landscapes.

"I enjoy spending most of my time out on the water, not only connecting with our marine ecosystems but also finding ways to make them and the local communities that depend on them more resilient."

Marcus Killmon, Captain and Facilities Manager

Marcus supports every program at the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve. He maintains VVCR’s fleet of marine vessels and has held a captain’s license since 2002. Marcus grew up spending time on Cedar Island and has been a member of the Wachapreague Volunteer Fire Department for more than 30 years.

"I enjoy that I spend 90% of my time outdoors. I love sharing my local experiences with the school groups we take out to Parramore Island."

Bo Lusk, Coastal Scientist

Bo grew up playing and working in the waters of the Eastern Shore. He leads the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve’s marine restoration work, including ongoing projects to restore oyster and eelgrass habitats, as well as working with partners to re-introduce the bay scallop to Virginia waters.

"I get to work in and help improve this incredible place to make it resilient for my children’s future and ensure its value for those of us who work and play here today."

Jennifer Miller, Brownsville Preserve and Education Manager

Jenny provides unique, hands-on learning opportunities for both teachers and students in Accomack and Northampton Counties. She also manages the Brownsville Preserve and maintains the William B. Cummings Birding and Wildlife Trail for the public to explore.

“It is an amazing feeling to leave a part of ourselves in every project we do to protect and preserve this beautiful area that we share with the community.”

Ben Nettleton, Land Protection Manager

Ben first joined the VVCR team in 2016 as a Virginia Sea Grant Fellow, and returned to TNC full time in 2023. As Land Protection Manager, Ben identifies priority sites for protection, and works with willing landowners who wish to see their land conserved. He also leads annual monitoring of VVCR’s more than 70 conservation easements in Accomack and Northampton Counties and works to develop conservation and management plans.

“I love working with private landowners who recognize the importance and beauty of their land and wish to see it protected by TNC. It is inspiring to witness this generosity and facilitate land protection that will leave a legacy on the Eastern Shore.”

Zak Poulton, Coastal Biologist/Technology Specialist

Zak is part of the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve’s shorebird and migratory bird team. A certified UAV pilot, Zak often finds himself out on the water or at the controls of a drone implementing the program’s monitoring, management, and research priorities. 

"Virginia’s barrier islands are a beautiful place to work with a great group of people with strong conservation values."

Alex Rich, Office Manager

Alex facilitates the smooth running of the Brownsville office. Her role focuses on building relationships, event planning, hospitality and logistics, in addition to managing office bills, contracts and farm leases. 

"As someone born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, I endeavor to be good ambassador for my home; using my knowledge and connection to the area to enrich visitor experiences and to show others what is profound about the coastal wilderness. I appreciate what the VVCR staff do to protect my hometown, so I hope to return the favor by making our office a pleasant place to work."

Margaret Van Clief, Outreach and Education Coordinator

Margaret works in the community to connect residents and Eastern Shore visitors with the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve’s properties through public events and educational programming, both on and off the preserve.

"I love our community here on the Shore, and this job allows me to become more involved and connect people of all ages with nature."

Alexandra Wilke, Coastal Scientist

Alex manages the Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve’s migratory bird program and is responsible for year-round stewardship of 50 miles of barrier island beaches. She works with Federal and State partners along the entire Atlantic coast to integrate VVCR's efforts with broader bird conservation initiatives. 

“I love being part of protecting a unique and special place that I hope will still be here in its natural state for my boys to enjoy decades from now.” 

Jennifer Dalke, Volunteer Program Manager

Jen has been with TNC for more than 15 years and joined the Virginia chapter in 2008. She works with staff, partners and volunteers of all ages to support TNC’s goals and carry out important conservation work like oyster and seagrass restoration, invasive species management, education and outreach and habitat protection. In 2019, more than 1,500 volunteers contributed 8,695 hours and helped with more than 100 projects.

"I enjoy connecting people to our mission and watching them bring their passion, talents, and creativity to our work."

Maura Duffy, Conservation Coordinator

Maura applies her background in habitat restoration and environmental education to support the chapter's land protection and volunteer stewardship efforts. She is also part of Virginia's fire team. Prior to joining TNC in 2021 she led community science programs at the National Aquarium, including Baltimore's participation in the City Nature Challenge, an annual, globe-spanning biodiversity event.

"My work is rewarding because I help to make tangible conservation work happen. I enjoy helping our teams achieve their goals and visiting the beautiful places we’ve protected."

Matt Zabik, Easement Stewardship Coordinator

Matt manages the Virginia chapter’s statewide conservation easement compliance program for 230 properties totaling nearly 95,000 acres. His work ensures that the conservation values of privately owned properties under TNC conservation easement are adequately protected.

“I enjoy working with easement landowners from different backgrounds to build long-lasting partnerships. I have the privilege and responsibility to show the public that TNC is fulfilling its conservation promises.”

Lena Lewis, Energy and Climate Policy Manager

Lena focuses on state-level policy that can lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. She concentrates on two main areas—energy efficiency and vehicle electrification—that have huge potential to reduce carbon pollution while also boosting our economy.

“I enjoy working with coalition partners and communicating with people about solutions to tackling climate change to protect ecosystems and people both locally and globally.”

Mikaela Ruiz-Ramón, Public Funding and Policy Manager

Mikaela joined the chapter in July 2023. Her work is focused on securing available federal and state funding to accelerate protection and restoration of key landscapes in Virginia. Mikaela advocates for TNC’s policy priorities with legislators and helps TNC staff and partners identify relevant funding opportunities that can support their conservation work.

"I love learning from the dedicated conservation professionals I interact with, both within TNC and among our partners. Their work to restore and preserve Virginia’s natural resources inspires and motivates me to keep pushing for the policies and funding to make sure that work can continue."

John Blackburn, Associate Director of Philanthropy

John works to build close, long-term relationships with donors and potential supporters, educating them about our work and learning about their philanthropic priorities. 

"I love interacting with our donors, especially out in the field. Finding ways for them to contribute meaningfully to conservation is extremely rewarding. I wake up every day excited about building support for our important work."

Madeleine Gill, Associate Director of Philanthropy

Madeleine works with our supporters in Northern Virginia, connecting donors to meaningful conservation work both here at home and in landscapes beyond the commonwealth.

"I am so inspired by the staff at TNC and with the people who choose to support them and their work. It has been an incredible education being a part of such an extremely talented team."  

Katherine Knox, Associate Director of Philanthropy

Katherine works closely with philanthropists, conservationists, landowners, TNC members and volunteers to match their commitment and vision for conservation with TNC’s land protection, climate resilience and clean water initiatives.

"I enjoy connecting people who are passionate about nature to the scientists and programs that protect the landscapes they love. Collaborating with Virginia’s team of conservation professionals has been an education and an inspiration."

Vanessa Morel, Associate Director of Philanthropy

Vanessa joined The Nature Conservancy's Virginia chapter in January 2022. She provides services and support for new and existing donors in the Richmond, Williamsburg and Hampton Roads regions, helping individuals live their values and make lasting impacts for conservation. 

"I am inspired by the people, programs and loyal supporters of TNC. My goal is to share that inspiration and give every donor the opportunity to experience the work they help make possible.”

Taylor Fanelli, Short Term Experience Program (STEP) Manager

Taylor joined the Virginia chapter in September 2022, managing our efforts to create intentional opportunities for students and young professionals from diverse backgrounds to work at TNC. She builds our framework of paid internships, recruiting students through partnerships with local colleges and universities, and creating engagement opportunities for interns to connect with our conservation teams and mission.

"By creating more opportunities for students from historically underrepresented communities, STEP can help ensure that TNC has diverse voices at the table in Virginia. I love opening doors to students who see themselves working in conservation but aren’t sure how to get there."

Avery Stone, Executive Coordinator & Board Liaison

Avery provides high-level administrative support to the chapter’s Executive Director and Leadership Team as well as serving as liaison for the Virginia Board of Trustees. Her coordination, communication and behind-the-scenes management supports all our chapter staff and helps advance TNC’s mission and priorities.

"I work with passionate, caring, innovative and smart people. I’m inspired every day by my colleagues and the Board members we’re so lucky to have in our corner."

Suzanna Turanyi, Operations Manager

Suzanna is responsible for the chapter's land finances and HR functions. She is one of the first faces new staff see as they begin their careers at TNC Virginia, providing support for our core mission projects.

"I enjoy interacting with my coworkers. I get to work with colleagues from every part of the chapter, and I love that."