About Our AmeriCorps Volunteers...

In addition to our full-time staff, Willow Bend has two full-time AmeriCorps volunteers. Click here to learn more.

 


Home » About Us » People » Staff

Meet Willow Bend’s staff

Russell Tweed, Executive Director

“Rusty” has a strong background in natural resources and over 15 years of experience in development, educational programming, and non-profit management. He has a Master's degree in Geology from NAU and a BA from Earlham College. His Non-profit experience includes working at Lowell Observatory for many years as development manager, serving as President of the Flagstaff Friends of Traditional Music, and serving on the organizing committee of the Pickin' in the Pines Music Festival. He is thrilled to be part of Willow Bend and looks forward to becoming familiar with all of the dedicated people that have led the organization.

Cassandra Roberts, Program Manager

Cassandra has been teaching for Willow Bend since 2009 and joined the full-time staff in 2011. Cassandra has taught elementary school in New Zealand and Japan and holds a B.Bus (Management) and M.A. (Experiential Education). Cassandra loves living in Flagstaff because the prevalent sunshine is so different from the typical weather in her native New Zealand.

Lauren Ritchey, AmeriCorps Outreach and Development Assistant

Lauren received a B.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Penn State University. She is excited to be living in Flagstaff and is looking forward to promoting Willow Bend and its message of environmental awareness throughout the community.

Lisa Eldredge, AmeriCorps Educator

Lisa holds a B.S. in Natural Resources from Humboldt State University, and an MA in Sustainable Communities from Northern Arizona University. Her diverse background includes experiential education on sailing ships, biological surveys with the US Forest Service, farming, bicycle mechanics, and facilitating engaged pedagogy programs at NAU. She is thrilled to be with Willow Bend.

Andy Gould, Volunteer Teacher

Andy is a retired teacher from Flagstaff with many years of experience volunteer teaching in a variety of nature centers around the country. He leads school field trips to Willow Bend in the fall and spring.