Jessica Szopinski
Shannon Fehlberg
I am interested in both patterns and processes in the evolution of plants. I work collaboratively at the interface of population genetics and phylogenomics using a variety of genetic and analytical approaches to investigate diversification of plants. My research program focuses on:
- Genetic variation and structure in populations of rare plants in order to gain a greater understanding of evolutionary processes and inform conservation action.
- Genetic relationships of closely related species, especially as influenced by polyploidy, hybridization, and ecology.
- Environmental, geographical, geological and historical processes that affect patterns of diversification and distribution in plant populations, in turn contributing to our understanding of future plant species distributions under global climate change.
R.J. Cardin
R.J. Cardin is the recently retired director of Maricopa County’s Parks and Recreation Department, one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. Maricopa County’s regional park system is made up of over 120,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert landscape.
The award-winning system is home to hundreds of miles of trails, including the Maricopa Trail, golf courses, recreation facilities, campgrounds, a marina, nature centers, nature and outdoor recreation programs, and an environmental learning center. The system garnered more than a 95% visitor experience satisfaction rating among guests and generated more than 93% of its operating income through earned revenue streams.
Cardin has more than 35 years of diverse parks and recreation experience, including local, county, and state government, commercial recreation, and the non-profit sector. Cardin holds a Master’s degree from Arizona State University, focusing on outdoor recreation and tourism. In addition, he holds Bachelor’s degrees in both Business Administration and Recreation Management from Morningside University.
Over the past several years, Cardin has been named Outstanding Park and Recreation Professional for Arizona; inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administrators and is a current Board member; served as the President of the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials; and, served as the Chair of the Arizona State Parks Board.
R.J. also served 8 years in the United States Army Reserves and was an Honorary Commander at Luke Air Force Base.
Laura Hackett
Chris Sar
Chris coordinates all fundraising activity for Liberty Wildlife, including annual giving, grant writing, events, estate planning gifts, and board participation. He also coordinates volunteer work projects on the campus, especially with Scouting groups and local service clubs. Chris joined Liberty Wildlife in 2017 following a long career in healthcare fundraising. He served as a consultant and Sr. VP of the Southwest Region for The Cagney Company from 2018 through 2022. Previously, Chris was Director of Planned Giving for Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and Director of Prospect Management and Annual Giving at PCH.
A fifth generation Arizonan, Chris holds degrees from ASU and Thunderbird School of Global Management. When not spending time with his wife, three children, three rescue dogs, cat, two adopted Sonoran Desert Tortoises (and whatever else someone brought home yesterday), he is active cultivating the native desert landscape of his yard, or volunteering with many community groups
Kim Gray
Kim Gray, a native Arizonian, has cultivated her deep-rooted passion for the natural world through a lifetime spent exploring the diverse landscapes of Arizona. Raised in Gilbert, Kim’s early years were marked by outdoor adventures and hikes that fueled her commitment to wildlife and desert plant conservation.
A proud alumna of Arizona State University, Kim holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. Complementing her biological sciences background, she earned a Master’s degree in Business Management from Cardinal Stritch University. Kim’s professional journey spans over 35 years within the zoological and conservation community, starting as a zookeeper at the Phoenix Zoo and progressing through various managerial roles at zoos and nonprofit organizations in the US.
Kim’s commitment to conservation led her to the role of Chief Operating Officer at the International Crane Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving cranes and their ecosystems. During her tenure, she successfully oversaw a $10.4 million campus-wide renovation, including the development of a new Visitor Center and exhibits.
As an accomplished nonprofit executive leader, Kim has consistently guided organizations to financial stability, strategic vision, and unparalleled visitor experiences. Her expertise in fundraising has played a pivotal role in securing resources for capital improvements. Notably, Kim has collaborated extensively with government partners, such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service, on endangered species recovery initiatives, including efforts focused on Whooping Cranes, piping plovers, and the California Condor.
Kim’s dedication extends to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, a place that held a special spot in her youth. Her love for gardening finds expression in her role as an avid cultivator of cacti, succulents, and vegetables. Beyond her professional pursuits, Kim enjoys hiking, reading, and cherishing moments with her faithful canine companion, “Trixie.” Currently residing in Gold Canyon, Kim is the proud mother of two adult daughters.
David Jordan
Jennifer Waller
Jennifer Waller is the Parks Director for Maricopa County Parks and Recreation. She previously served as Deputy Director, overseeing 120,000 acres of park operations, volunteer programs, natural resources, souvenirs, and daily management across superintendent, maintenance, interpretive, and administrative teams.
Since joining the department in 1996, Jennifer has served as a certified law enforcement Park Ranger, Park Supervisor, Westside Superintendent, Operations Manager, and Deputy Director.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation administration and is a graduate of the National Recreation and Park Association’s Directors School.
Jennifer is dedicated to connecting people with the outdoors while protecting natural resources for future generations.
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