by Challie Facemire | May 6, 2026 | Committee
C J Horn works as the Horticulture Manager at Boyce Thompson Arboretum (BTA). His work at the BTA involves maintaining and developing plans for the 135 acres of gardens that showcase plants from arid environments across the world. C J received his Master of Science in Forestry from Northern Arizona University in 2025, where he researched how a changing climate influenced understory plant populations in the Sierra Ancha mountains in central Arizona. He is passionate about monitoring long-term ecological changes across southwestern ecosystems and is currently developing plans at BTA for ecological restoration and replanting projects.
by Challie Facemire | Apr 20, 2026 | Committee
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.
by Challie Facemire | Apr 20, 2026 | Committee
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
by Challie Facemire | Apr 20, 2026 | Committee
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.
by Challie Facemire | Aug 11, 2025 | Uncategorized
Just before graduating with a BS in Environmental Science and Policy from St. Edward’s University, Cameron became interested in learning more about the hands-on and social aspects of environmental work. After starting a master’s degree in natural resources with an emphasis in rangeland management at the University of Arizona, she came across CAZCA while looking for an internship. Currently, she is working with CAZCA to collect survey data about public concern about stinknet as an invasive species and what barriers are present that limit effective management.
by Challie Facemire | Apr 24, 2025 | Committee
Devin Quintana currently serves as the Public Services Staff Officer (Social Scientist) for the Tonto National Forest and is key member of the Forest Leadership Team. His portfolio includes program management for Recreation, Trails, Wilderness, Wild and Scenic Rivers, Heritage, Archaeology, Tribal Relations, Lands, Special Uses, Partnerships, Volunteers, and Scenery. Devin has over 25 years of experience with the Forest Service and has served in many roles including Forest Planning, GIS Analysis, Cartography, Resource Information Management, and Environmental Compliance. Additionally, Devin serves as a firefighter in various capacities including serving as an Agency Administrator. Devin’s background is in Regional Development, Economics, Planning and Business Administration.
Devin’s passionate about working with partners and exploring ways to leverage collective resources to deliver maximum benefits to the public.
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