Board of Directors and Staff

Board of Directors

Chris Wendel

Chair

Chris works for Northern Initiatives, a mission-based lender supporting small businesses across Michigan with financing and technical assistance. With a background in economics and entrepreneurship, he has experience operating retail stores and publishing books. Chris previously served as a business consultant and Regional Director for the Michigan Small Business Development Center, specializing in startups and food-related businesses. Originally from Western New York, he graduated from the University of Colorado and now lives in Traverse City, where he enjoys running, swimming, and hiking.

Renee Sovis

Vice-Chair

Renee is President of Neithercut Philanthropy Advisors, working with family foundations and boards to align grantmaking with founders’ values and achieve meaningful community impact. A 21/64 Certified Advisor, she supports multigenerational engagement rooted in shared goals of generosity and purpose. Renee holds a Master of Science in administration with a focus on philanthropy and nonprofits, and brings experience in nonprofit leadership, consulting, and small business ownership. She serves as Secretary of the LIFT Teen Center Board and supports initiatives in education, equity, and environmental stewardship.

Jessica Guenther

Treasurer

Jessica, a Northern Michigan native, previously worked in the accounting department at SEEDS before joining its board. Passionate about the region’s natural beauty, she is driven by SEEDS’ mission to support the community, especially youth and those needing a helping hand. Her connection to the organization inspired her to take on a leadership role. Outside of SEEDS, Jessica owns FreshTrippin, a Traverse City–based company providing cleaning, maintenance, and concierge services to homeowners, property managers, and businesses.

 

Natasha Koss

Secretary

Natasha’s lifelong curiosity about the natural world led her to study Wildlife Biology, earning BS and MS degrees in Marquette. She gained field experience at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Hiawatha National Forest, then expanded her skills as an environmental consultant and fundraiser. Now based in Marquette, she supports small business growth as Fund Development Officer for Northern Initiatives and volunteers with Michigan Audubon. In her free time, she enjoys running, biking, and skiing with family and friends.

Carolyn Andrews

Board Member

Carolyn is Construction Technology Program Coordinator at Northwestern Michigan College, overseeing Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC/R, and Plumbing programs. With over a decade in interior design and construction, including kitchen and bath design, she brings strong project expertise from concept to completion. Carolyn champions innovation in the skilled trades and hands-on student learning. She has held leadership roles with the Home Builders Association and NKBA, and helped launch Professional Women in Building locally. She enjoys gardening, refinishing furniture, and spending time with her family.

Brayton Farr

Board Member

Brayton, a lifelong resident of Leelanau County, Michigan, was raised in the village of Northport, where he developed a strong commitment to community and meaningful relationships. He earned a BBA in Finance and Marketing from Grand Valley State University. Brayton began his career in insurance in 2013, later transitioning into residential mortgage lending in 2020. He is now a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer with Citywide Home Mortgage, a Life Insurance Professional with Farmers Insurance, and founder of Solutions By Farr, LLC, remaining active in community service.

Trevor Davies

Board Member

Trevor has spent over two decades supporting youth development programs nationwide, including in Northern Michigan. From hands-on environmental education to coaching youth sports, he is dedicated to creating opportunities for learning and growth for both youth and adults. Trevor earned a BA in Recreation and an MA in Communication from Western Michigan University, where he also serves on the School of Communication’s External Advisory Board, continuing his commitment to education, mentorship, and community engagement.

Liz Celeste

Board Member

Liz is a Midwest native and Traverse City resident with a dynamic career spanning nonprofit leadership, museum education, and creative visual storytelling. Currently the Curator of Education and Exhibitions at the Dennos Museum Center, she brings over a decade of experience in developing innovative programming, fostering community partnerships, and advancing sustainability in the arts and beyond. Liz’s commitment to environmental education is driven by her creativity, spirit of collaboration, and service to the community.

Headwaters

Sarna Salzman

Executive Director
Sarna is our founding Executive Director. Building place-based regenerative communities is her focus, including her work leading and developing the organization’s inner-operations. An adaptive, collaborative leader in the office and out in the community, she is enthusiastic about robust evaluation techniques that value the qualitative alongside the quantitative. Under her direction, SEEDS has specialized in forging multi-sector, multi-disciplinary community relationships that result in manifesting connections between outdoor settings and public schools, leveraging federal funds to serve local priorities, and helping people of all ages become better collaborators with each other and with nature. She works to invite behavioral biophilia into every dilemma and to meet people where they are. Sarna studied Anthropology & Sociology in college and has an MS in Community Development. Does she enjoy tinkering in behavioral economics in her spare time? Absolutely, right after this 21st century visionary parks her commuter bike and waters the plants.

Ryan Buck

Senior Philanthropy Officer

Ryan brings energy and passion shaped by years in hospitality and service, with a strong focus on sustainability, the outdoors, and community connection. Born and raised in Chicago, he studied Psychology and Communications at Valparaiso University. His career in Hospitality Sales & Marketing took him to San Francisco and Miami before returning to the Midwest and settling in Traverse City as Director of Sales at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa. Ryan also hosts a community-focused podcast and enjoys music, outdoor activities, and time with family and friends.

Kristopher Hall

Operations Manager

Kris has always been drawn to working with youth, motivated by the gap between traditional education and what truly engages students. His perspective developed during a college internship with a student-focused program in Kalamazoo. After earning his MS and working in youth-serving roles, he joined SEEDS EcoSchool, inspired by its focus on SEL, ecology, and STEM. He advanced from site operations to Operations Manager, bringing curiosity and energy to his work. Outside of work, Kris enjoys weightlifting, marathon training, and embracing his nerdy interests.

Brigit Hassig

Philanthropy Director

Brigit brings over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, social entrepreneurship, and community-based work to SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers. She helps organizations strengthen operations, deepen supporter relationships, and turn big ideas into practical impact, blending strategy with heart. A natural collaborator, Brigit focuses on fund development, organizational strategy, and sustainable growth for nonprofits. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors, hiking, and sharing time with her daughters and friends, bringing the same curiosity and energy to life as she does to her work.

Tetyana Kotsekon

Controller
Tetyana joined the SEEDS team because she loves spending time outdoors with her kids and wanted to support an organization that is benefitting nature. A lover of classical music, Tetyana brings the down-to-Earth practically needed in the accounting department of a growing non-profit and local employer. Outside of spreadsheets and Quickbooks, she enjoys hiking, swimming, skiing, and biking. She also enjoys traveling and aspires to one day sail around the world.

Brook Pepper

HR and Accounting Assistant

Brook joined SEEDS, drawn by its focus on environmental education and outdoor learning for children. Outside work, she enjoys settling into her new home, building a pen for her two horses, and caring for her cats, dogs, and tortoise. An avid traveler and slow-pitch softball player, Brook is known for her positivity, strong people skills, and ability to spread happiness, reflecting her passion for both community engagement and the natural world.

Jen Spencer

Data Manager

Jen is dedicated to fostering connections between people, communities, and nature. She holds a B.A. in Administrative Leadership and an M.S. in Applied Psychology and has a decade of experience in Human Resources, Marketing, and Operations. At SEEDS, she supports Headwaters with data management, and helps observe and evaluate EcoSchool after-school programming across K–12 sites. Outside work, Jen enjoys deep conversations, concerts, and spending time with her dog, Elliott, and loved ones.

Jon Tacoma

Human Resources Director

Jon was drawn to SEEDS by his love of the outdoors and is passionate about preserving natural spaces for future generations. Having lived across the U.S., he feels a deep connection to Michigan’s forests. As HR Director, Jon focuses on fostering growth, collaboration, and strong interpersonal relationships. Outside work, he enjoys fishing, camping, projects, and traveling, including motorcycle trips along the West Coast from Mexico to Canada and from Los Angeles to Mackinaw, combining adventure with his love for nature.

EcoCorps

Jennifer Flynn

EcoCorps Program Director

Jennifer, an Ecopsychologist, integrates regenerative practices into her personal and professional life, emphasizing the healing connection between humans and nature. After 14 years in North Carolina as an eco-therapist, rural developer, and consultant for regenerative enterprises, she now leads the SEEDS EcoCorps Program, blending ecopsychology, business, and skill development. A Michigan native, Jennifer is also a permaculture designer, herbalist, and creator of over 50 medicinal herbal remedies. She enjoys hiking, dog walking, sewing, and sculpting with clay, metal, and natural materials.

Kris Walters

Field Manager

Kris Walters, a Benzie County native, returned to the Grand Traverse area after a 20-year army career and now serves as Field Manager for SEEDS EcoCorps Program. Passionate about mentoring and community well-being, he brings PMP and FAA Part 107 certifications to address environmental challenges efficiently. Kris and his wife are building a sustainable homestead, reflecting their commitment to stewardship. Outside work, he enjoys exploring Michigan’s natural landscapes and spending quality time with family and loved ones.

Jo Jaczkowski

Crew Leader & Composting Manager

Jo, raised in Metro Detroit, developed a love for nature through nationwide childhood adventures and achieving Eagle Scout rank. They earned a BS in Biology from Saginaw Valley State University and served as Outdoor Adventure Coordinator for three years, inspiring their role with SEEDS EcoCorps Program. As Composting Manager, Jo shares environmental knowledge while enjoying trails, music, cooking, soccer, and composting, bringing energy, curiosity, and a smile to every project and interaction.

Kyle Warner

Farmers Market Manager
A transplant from Western Michigan Kyle has been a avid supporter of farmers markets where ever he is. No surprise that he is now leading the Sara Hardy Farmers Market found in downtown Traverse City. When not at the market you will find Kyle spending time with his family in their 1,000 square foot garden, playing tennis, or backpacking the scenic trails that Michigan offers.

EcoSchool

Sandra Ehlers

EcoSchool Program Director

Sandra, an Elk Rapids native, returned to Northern Michigan after years in Wisconsin as a middle school principal. She brings her passion for education and the environment to her work at SEEDS. Sandra holds a BA in Communications from University of Michigan and an MA in Education from Eastern Michigan University. In her free time, she enjoys running, golfing, skiing, boating, and embracing all that Northern Michigan has to offer.

Erica Adams

EcoSchool Associate Program Director

Erica is passionate about environmental education and community collaboration. She holds a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from Michigan State University and has over five years of experience in endangered species recovery for Great Lakes Piping Plovers at Sleeping Bear Dunes. Erica coordinates EcoSchool programs, supports site staff, and fosters student connections with nature. She enjoys hiking, birdwatching, and experimenting with lavender, and has spotted 13 of 30 salamander species in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Hannah Bird

EcoSchool Associate Program Director

Hannah returned to her tight-knit community in Fife Lake after studying Family Life Education. She initially worked at Fife Lake Elementary, supporting families’ basic and social-emotional needs, and now serves as EcoSchool Associate Program Director at SEEDS, creating meaningful connections with students in a fun, educational setting. In her personal time, Hannah enjoys rock collecting, exploring Michigan, hiking, and camping in the U.P., and cherishes moments with her husband, babies, and playful dog.

Brett Bontrager

Multi-Site Coordinator,
Kalkaska Public Schools
Brett uses his teaching degree to enrich the After School Program at Rapid City Elementary. He has an affinity for creative learning opportunities with the students, such as exploring the school forest and river, researching Pokemon and creating reports, and encouraging hands-on art projects. He will forever be known at Rapid City Elementary as the legend behind the infamous playground tag game “Bonzilla.

Britney Brintzenhoff

Site Supervisor, Kalkaska Upper Elementary

Britney, once a SEEDS student at Kalkaska Middle School, returned to SEEDS EcoSchool inspired by her own positive experiences. Excited to work with kids and move toward her teaching goals, she now serves as site supervisor for grades 3–5, creating a nurturing, engaging environment that mirrors the support and activities that shaped her personal growth.

Theresa Corcoran

Nutrition Education Specialist

Theresa, a longtime Traverse City resident, brings a background in graphic design and a passion for healthy food to her role as Nutrition Educator at SEEDS. She previously worked with Traverse Magazine, GTACS, and Old Mission Peninsula schools, integrating creative nutrition programs. Outside work, Theresa enjoys cross-country skiing, biking, cold-water swims, rollercoasters, horseback riding, reading, TED talks, and yoga, while staying connected with her husband Mike and four adult children.

Amanda Gordon

Site Coordinator,
Fife Lake Elementary School

Amanda, a Fife Lake native, returned home after 10 years in North Dakota to join SEEDS EcoSchool. With over 25 years of experience working with children, she focuses on connecting with students, supporting their social-emotional growth, and fostering environmental awareness. In her free time, Amanda enjoys visiting her husband’s family farm and maple sugaring shack, spending time with her daughter before college, and continuing a family travel tradition, having explored more than 30 U.S. states, Canada, and Mexico.

Keira Long

Site Coordinator
TCAPS Montessori; Traverse Area Heights

Keira, a Traverse City native, has a diverse background in program coordination supporting children, teens, and older adults. Her interest in youth programming began while earning a degree in Recreation and Event Management at Central Michigan University, where she worked in an elementary afterschool program. Now with SEEDS, she serves as Site Coordinator at Bestie Valley, bringing dynamic, engaging experiences. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Keira enjoys backpacking, skiing, climbing, and exploring nature.

Jamie Robbins

Site Coordinator,
Forest Area Middle School

Jamie, a longtime Fife Lake resident, serves as Site Coordinator at SEEDS, bringing dedication to creating safe, nurturing spaces for children. She has extensive experience as a school volunteer and paraprofessional for grades PreK–3, witnessing firsthand the positive impact of SEEDS. Jamie values family time, enjoys reading, and has overcome vision-challenging cataracts without letting them slow her pursuit of personal and professional goals.

Sarah Shelp

Nutrition Education Manager

Sarah Shelp brings a decade of experience in youth advocacy and counseling to SEEDS. She holds a BA in Psychology from Michigan State University and an MA in Family and Consumer Sciences from Western Michigan University. A nature lover, gardener, and mother, Sarah enjoys swimming in open water and exploring beaches. Known for building strong connections, she is happiest nurturing growth in people, offering a compassionate ear, hearty laughs, and has never yet met a stranger.

Dalcie Thomsen

Site Coordinator,
Mesick Consolidated Schools

Dalcie Thomsen has nearly 20 years of experience managing their family farm and greenhouse and caring for animals, including 80 chickens. Inspired by their children’s engagement in a SEEDS EcoSchool program, Dalcie now serves as Site Supervisor in Mesick, bringing compassion, creativity, and excitement to environmental education. They enjoy gardening, reading, and lifelong learning, and are passionate about teaching youth about food sources and humans’ impact on the environment.