Staff - Oregon Tilth

Executive Leadership

Dr. Leonard Freeman, Jr.

Interim Chief Executive Officer

Leonard Freeman, Jr. is the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Oregon Tilth, based in Dallas, Texas. His diverse career spans affordable housing, community engagement, and education, epitomizing his commitment to innovation, data analytics, and generational empowerment. As a noted writer, he has been featured in Forbes and other publications, sharing insights on innovation, diversity, and leadership. Leonard holds a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Special Education from Sam Houston State University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Grand Canyon University. He serves on the boards of The National Society of Black Sports Professionals and the Hue Project. Residing in Houston, Texas, Leonard continues to be a dynamic force for positive change.

Renee Kempka

Finance and Administration Director

A yoga pant wearing finance faerie. I crave spreadsheets and random jokes. Nothing should be done without a dose of creativity. Fun Fact: I won a beauty and talent pageant in high school.

Edward Johnson III

Communications and Marketing Director

Edward Johnson, is the Communication and Marketing Deputy Director for Oregon Tilth, based in Palmetto, Florida. With over 20 years of nonprofit experience, Edward is an award-winning omni-channel creative strategist and thought leader. He received a Master of Project Management and a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Graphic Design. His democratic leadership style empowers teams to achieve goals through design, branding, digital strategy, and project management. Passionate about storytelling and inspiring positive change, Edward's vision transforms marketing into an electrifying realm of possibilities, where every idea finds its voice and every vision finds wings. Beyond work, he treasures family time, gardening, cycling, and captivating TV series.

Certification

(503) 378-0690 organic@tilth.org

Evelyn Rosas

Certification Director

Evelyn Rosas is a former farmer with eighteen years of experience in agriculture, organic certification and community food systems. Her background as an inspector, certification specialist, and manager paired with an education in anthropology and dedication to social justice shape her approach to leading dynamic and thoughtful change. Evelyn’s professional commitment to the organic community is paralleled by her personal pursuits as an avid birdwatcher and amateur naturalist raising nature-loving kids.

Diane Hennelly

Certification Services Manager

A pajama wearing eagle eye. I crave sunshine and coffee. Nothing should be done without creativity in the office. Fun Fact: I live in Hawaii, love scuba diving and have a cat (Kitty) who is allergic to humans (among other things).

Sean Myers

Certification Services Manager

Sean Myers is the Certification Services Manager, based in the Appalachian Mountains of Western Maryland. With a background in dairy and grazing management, animal health, behavior, and welfare, he brings deep expertise in agriculture and conservation. Sean’s career began in the outdoor industry as a guide and park ranger before returning to his roots in farming. He has worked as an animal health technician, inspector, and program manager for federal and state agencies, gaining experience in environmental conservation, international agri-food trade, and regulation. Becoming an organic inspector solidified his passion for the organic industry, leading him to Oregon Tilth. Dedicated to supporting small family farms and inspiring youth to engage in agriculture, Sean is also passionate about wilderness preservation and public land access. He enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, and exploring National Parks. Fun fact: He has been struck by lightning!

Elizabeth Tigan

Fiber and Textile Specialist

A colorful scarf wearing standards enforcer. I crave strong coffee and daily walks. Nothing should be done without positive motivation.

Carolyn Pochatek

Fiber & Textile Officer

Angela Morgan

Transaction Services Administrator

Client Services: Blue Team

(541) 279-2676‬ blue@tilth.org

Joscelyn Strange

Senior Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of empathy and a Central Kentucky native. Master of overthinking everything and a good eye roll. Takes every opportunity to make someone smile at work. Fun Fact: I have shown cows in more states than I have vacationed in, and I am a momma to the cutest little boy and four fur balls.

Meghan Patrick

Certification Officer

A soft-clothes wearing box-checker. I crave lists, calendars and spreadsheets, and believe nothing should be done without a sense of humor. Fun fact: I used to live in a van down by the river. (And the ocean. And the desert. And the swamp. And the mountains.)

Megan Ogle

Certification Officer

A shrunken wool sweater wearing livestock enthusiast. I crave masala dosa and the Appalachian Foothills, and believe nothing should be done without the right tool for the job. Fun fact: one of my goats makes super hero sound effects.

Sam Wildfong

Certification Officer

A knit hat wearing deep listener. I crave a chill/lo-fi playlist and co-op bulk bin snacks, and believe nothing should be done without clear eyes and a full heart. Fun fact: My family and I call Vashon Island, WA our home where we run a small salad greens farm.

Shannon Sears

Certification Services Officer

Gwen Hill

Certification Operations Administrator

Gwen Hill is the Certification Operations Administrator based in Oregon. Her professional journey began as an inventory specialist and evolved into a dynamic role as a front office manager, where she honed her skills in communication, organization, and client support. Gwen brings a passion for creating exceptional client experiences, using her sharp problem-solving abilities and attention to detail to help keep operations running smoothly at Oregon Tilth. Outside of work, Gwen enjoys homesteading and expanding her space to care for the animals she adopts. Her hobbies include cooking, gardening, paddle boarding, and adventuring with her puppy.

Client Services: Green Team

‭(541) 304-2302 green@tilth.org

Jennifer Ungemach

Certification Services Supervisor

A jeans wearing multi-tasking team builder. I crave sprawling desk space and early morning starts and believe nothing should be done without playfulness. Fun Fact: I make great Cuban-style pork with mojo to celebrate Thanksgiving in Mexico.

Arthur Bassett

Senior Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of creativity and a Yaqui watershed native. Master of patiently receiving the gifts of life and having my feet in the soil. Takes every opportunity to define applicable organic labels certified by an accredited administration at work. Fun Fact: I love to explore the world with my family.

Aileen Cuellar

Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of empathy and Baja California native. Master of traveling, triathlons, rock climbing and gardening. Takes every opportunity to learn something new at work along with a strong cup of coffee. fun fact: I love challenges and outdoor activities as much as fermenting processes like Sauerkraut and Sourdough.

Ricardo Martinez

Certification Officer

Alejandra Contreras

Certification Services Officer

A firm believer in the power of empathy and Tamazula de Gordiano, Jalisco native. Master of hard work and enjoying life. Takes every opportunity to learn as much as I can at work. Fun Fact: A mother of a beautiful girl since 2019

Tianna Kline

Certification Operations Administrator

Alejandra Zapien Ramos

Latin America Support Specialist

A firm believer in the power of a smile and Uruapan, Michoacán native. Master of positivity and honesty. Takes every opportunity to learn new things at work. Fun Fact: I am a double black belt at Tae Kwon Do.

Ernesto Santamaria

Mexico Representative

Bio coming soon.

Client Services: Indigo Team

(541) 291-4919‬ indigo@tilth.org

Erin Lapsansky

Certification Services Supervisor

A fanatic for life, willing to take on any obstacle. I love biking, paddling, skiing, and recently took up pickleball. My two dogs remind me to stay present and enjoy the small things. Fun Fact: I have all of the plant’s I’ve studied tattooed on my arm.

Edward Seeley

Senior Certification Officer

Bio coming soon.

Ariana Rascol

Certification Officer

Ariana Rascol is a Certification Officer based in her lifelong hometown of Vancouver, Washington. She holds a B.A. in Human Development and Psychology and brings a people-centered approach to her work, rooted in curiosity and care. Ariana is passionate about holistic health and energy medicine, and believes laughter—at least twice a day—is essential to a good life. Outside of work, she’s often chasing hot springs, camping under the stars, or cooking up delicious vegan meals. Fun fact: one of her cats runs on a wheel, by choice!

Ive Sell

Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of non-linear time and a Midwest native. Master of misplaced sarcasm and dark humor. Takes every opportunity to bite off more than I can chew at work. Fun Fact: I can milk a goat, but not a cow.

Grace Harris

Certification Officer

Grace Harris is a Certification Officer based in Lafayette, Indiana. She holds a degree in Agribusiness from Purdue University, where she conducted research on organic hemp cultivation and its impact on soil health. During her time at Purdue, Grace was also actively involved in the Purdue Student Farm Organization. After graduation, she worked as a Grain Compliance Officer for the State Department of Agriculture, combining regulatory experience with her passion for sustainable farming. This path has prepared her well for her current role at Oregon Tilth. Grace enjoys collaging, pottery, yoga, dancing, and attending concerts, and is especially drawn to foraging and plant identification. In her free time, you’ll find her hydroponic gardening, roller-skating, cooking, hiking, or van traveling with her three dogs. Fun fact: Grace grew up on a farm surrounded by goats, chickens, horses, ducks, rabbits, and plenty of dogs and cats.

Annalise Servin

Certification Services Officer

Gideon Dobson-Repinski

Certification Operations Administrator

A firm believer in the power of positive thinking and a driftless area native. Master of bad jokes and movie watching. Takes every opportunity to listen to others and grow at work. Fun Fact: I was born with a curved pinky.

Client Services: Orange Team

‭(541) 226-3176 orange@tilth.org

Michelle Gregg

Certification Services Supervisor

Michelle D. Gregg, an oxford shirt wearing practical joker. I crave new experiences and to-do lists and believe nothing should be done without a sense of perspective. A firm believer in an apple a day.

Ricardo Areingdale

Certification Officer

Ricardo Areingdale is a Certification Officer based in Gainesville, Florida. He brings hands-on experience in organic farming, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance. His journey began as a volunteer on an organic farm, sparking a deep passion for sustainable agriculture. He later worked as a nursery inspector for the State of Florida, gaining expertise in regulations and industry relations. As a Quality Coordinator, he refined his skills in compliance and organic system planning. Now at Oregon Tilth, Ricardo applies this experience to support organic certification. Passionate about food systems and environmental stewardship, he enjoys long-distance cycling, baking, and hands-on projects.

Phoebe Judge

Certification Officer

Serena Jennings-Turner

Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of laughter and a San Diego native. Master of puzzles and over-communicating. Takes every opportunity to be positive at work. Fun Fact: I have lived in 25 different houses.

Andrew Lind

Certification Services Officer

Kettie Adams

Certification Operations Administrator

A soft scarf wearing multi-tasker. I crave energy and positivity. Nothing should be done without a smile. Fun Fact: I enjoy dancing with Kevlar poi on fire.

Heather Toumbs

Senior Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of compassion and Central Oregon native. Master of the dual eye wink and DIY woodworking crafts. Takes every opportunity to make a weird face at work. Fun Fact: I have been in 19 weddings in my life and I’m going for 27 just for the dresses.

Client Services: Red Team

(541) 241-8037 red@tilth.org

Maria Moss

Certification Services Supervisor

A firm believer in the power of compassion and Ohio native. Master of collecting non-human animals and laughing awkwardly. Takes every opportunity to keep it real at work. I raise dairy goats and chickens.

Sam Karns

Senior Certification Officer

Sam Karns is a Certification Officer on the Red Team. He has years of experience as a boots-on-the-ground farmer and organic inspector of all scopes, giving him in-depth appreciation and knowledge of organic farming systems and food production. His skills are rooted in always wanting to learn more, leading him to be thorough and thoughtful in his work. Outside the office Sam volunteers with his local community garden and the Minnesota Department of Ag.

Stephanie Sparrell-Martin

Certification Officer

Cristiana Vallejos

Certification Officer

McKenzie McDermott

Certification Officer

McKenzie McDermott (she/her/hers) is the Certification Officer for Red Team, based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She has a bachelor’s degree in environmental policy, and experience in sustainability, advocacy, and social justice work. Outside of work she enjoys reading, crocheting, aimless walks, and a binge-worthy TV show.

Rachel Winograd

Certification Officer

Rachel Winograd is a Certification Officer on the Red Team. She is based in Kingston NY, just a stone's throw from where she was born and raised. Before joining Oregon Tilth, Rachel spent several years as a contract auditor for environmental and social certification programs across the US. With a background in sustainable agriculture and farmworker-led community-based projects, she is passionate about organic farming as a means to support safe and healthy livelihoods for farmworkers and rural communities. Outside of work, she is an avid gardener and loves exploring the natural environment. Fun Fact: Inspired early on by the children's book Koko's Kitten, Rachel once moved to California to volunteer as a food prep assistant for Koko the gorilla (RIP).

Olivia Schneider

Certification Services Officer

Olivia Schneider (she/her) is the Certification Services Officer for the red team. Growing up in Lake Tahoe, NV inspired Olivia's love for nature that she carries into her work today. She graduated from Oregon State with a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences and an Organic Farming Systems Certificate. Outside of work, you'll find her hiking with her dog, collecting native seeds, painting, and snapping pics of cool critters.

Zelda Crain

Certification Operations Administrator

A firm believer in the power of community and Southern California native. Master of all things coffee and sarcasm. Takes every opportunity to smile and laugh at work. Fun Fact: I have a menagerie of farm animals/fur babies — two of each species. Apparently I’m working on my very own ark.

Client Services: Yellow Team

(541) 279-2232‬ yellow@tilth.org

Matt Boll

Certification Services Supervisor

A firm believer in the power of kindness and San Diego, CA native. Master of the Universe and a four-year-old. Takes every opportunity to make friends at work. Fun Fact: Loves Mexican food.

Sarah Townsend

Senior Certification Officer

A firm believer in the power of music and teamwork, and 30-year citizen of Hawaii. Master of the obvious and rainy day enthusiast. Takes every opportunity to learn a new word. Fun Fact: I'm at my happiest getting muddy in a pottery.

Mariana Chapela

Certification Officer

Karen Mischel

Certification Officer

Gretchen Oat

Certification Officer

Jenna Karahalios

Certification Services Officer

Quality and Accreditation

(503) 378-0690 organic@tilth.org

Meagan Collins

Quality and Compliance Manager

A comfy clothes wearing peacemaker. I crave sunshine and organic kombucha and believe nothing should be done without patience and a positive attitude. Fun Fact: I am a mother of two young children, so I never sleep but I enjoy every waking moment of it!

JJ Mack

Senior Quality Assurance Specialist

A firm believer in the power of questions and Ataraxia native. Master of esoterica and schwarmerei. Takes every opportunity to expatiate at work. Fun fact: In a previous life, JJ was a deejay and helped run a community radio station in Chicago IL. Excelsior!

Camille Ackerman

Technical Specialist

Sarah Forsythe

Technical Specialist

A firm believer in the power of community and Midwest native. Master of house plants and collector of hobbies. Takes every opportunity to be inclusive at work. Fun fact: I once grew carrots for the King and Queen of Norway.

Matthew Molyneaux

Technical Specialist

Matthew Molyneaux, a firm believer in the power of git-r-done and Northern California native. Master of making thoughtful messes and fostering nature connections. Takes every opportunity to ’sharpen the pencil’ at work. I am much better at hiking than swimming!

Colleen Derrico

Technical Specialist

A firm believer in the power of grit and a Chicago native. Master of wrangling small children and stopping to pet friendly dogs along the way. Takes every opportunity to snack while at work. Fun Fact: My first years after college were spent professionally training horses.

Erin Bardagjy

Technical Specialist

A jeans wearing animal lover. I crave a eggs and bacon. Nothing should be done without coffee. Fun Fact: I am a beekeeper.

Inspections

(503)-378-0690 organic@tilth.org

Lexi Spoor

Inspections Deputy Director

Lexi Spoor is the Inspections Supervisor, based in upstate New York. With a solid science background, Lexi has hands-on experience in farming, including growing produce, raising poultry, and handling large livestock. She has over five years of experience in material review and collaborating with Organic inspectors, showcasing her expertise in agricultural practices. Lexi has a keen interest in gardening and enjoys immersing herself in National Geographic series. Her hobbies extend to hobby farming, collecting animals, and traveling to destinations with waters clear enough for snorkeling. Lexi enjoys her coffee white, tea black, and is a dedicated mother to three young children.

Jennifer Kirby

Inspections Supervisor

A firm believer in the power of breathing deeply and Husker Nation native. Master of organization and logistics. Takes every opportunity to drink coffee at work. Fun Fact: Barack Obama answered a question I posed to him during his first campaign.

Robert Albee

Inspections Supervisor

A firm believer in the power of positivity and curiosity and Oregon native. Master of ginger consumption and rising with the sun. Takes every opportunity to smile and laugh at work. Fun fact: Enthralled with all things outdoors.

Chris Elder

Inspections Supervisor

A North Carolina native and firm believer in the power of seeing the world through others’ eyes. Admirer of gadgets and energetic minds who feels that nothing should be done without proper socks. Loves bikes, books, beer, birds, baseball, bourbon, and bacon!

Linden Steinmann

Senior Inspector

A nothing-but-black wearing jet setter of the inspection world. I crave variety and new experiences and believe nothing should be done without a dash of creativity. My office is known as the “Loom Room” because it is also my weaving studio.

Anna Hanson

Senior Inspector

A firm believer in the power of empathy and Bay Area native. Master of all things underwater and above treeline. Takes every opportunity to lend a helping hand in order to get things done at work. I hiked the Camino de Santiago (500 miles in 32 days) and wanted to keep on going!

Amy Stafford

Senior Inspector

A firm believer in the power of laughter and a rather nomadic American. Master of baking at elevation and asking the same question three ways. Takes every opportunity to dig into the details at work. Fun Fact: I chauffeured Graham Chapman, Mercury Morris, and Donald Woods in my 1970 Gran Torino convertible.

Thomas Forrest

Senior Inspector

Bio coming soon.

Margaret Liddiard

Senior Inspector

A firm believer in the power of courage and kindness and a Minnesota native. Master of knowing just one thing about a lot of things and finding the humor in most situations. Takes every opportunity to stand up while reading at work. Fun Fact: Once walked across burning coals. On purpose.

Angelica Adams

Inspector

A firm believer in the power of active listening and Coastal California native. Master of singing badly out loud and staying in the sun way too long. Takes every opportunity to be a supportive colleague at work. Fun Fact: I love machines, especially tractors and farm implements and am in my happy place when mowing the fields.

Mike Patterson

Inspector

Tanya Bagley

Inspector

Jennifer White

Inspector

Ame Longwell

Inspector

Brian Lepore

Inspector

Susanna Dzejachok

Inspector

Susanna Dzejachok is an Inspector based in Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a B.S. in Biology from Case Western Reserve University and an M.S. in Biology from Cleveland State University. Susanna’s passion for connecting communities to food began at the former Cleveland Food Co-op and has since guided a diverse career in agriculture and food systems. Her experience includes farming at the Kinsman Incubator Farm, managing a high tunnel through EQIP, volunteering at a dairy, working on a certified organic vegetable farm, producing value-added goods at a community kitchen, and selling her products at farmers markets. She enjoys exploring sci-fi in all forms, collecting vintage kitchen gadgets, and cooking a wide range of ethnic dishes. In her free time, Susanna raises chickens at her urban homestead, visits local markets and pick-your-own farms, and gardens at the Rust Belt Community Garden. Fun fact, she grew up in a family print shop.

Elizabeth Bretko

Inspector

Elizabeth Bretko is an Inspector based in Southern Oregon, with a rich background in food manufacturing and farming. With 23 years of experience in producing herbal teas and immune boosters, and 14 years in cultivating flowers and medicinal herbs, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Elizabeth is also the President of the Board of Directors for the Rogue Valley Growers & Crafters Market. Her interests include growing marigolds, making medicine, and exploring Oregon. Outside of work, she is a dedicated full-time mom to a remarkable teenager.

Kathryn Collmar

Inspector

Kathryn Collmar is an Inspector located in Noti, Oregon. Her background as a chemist, with a focus on organometallic chemistry in graduate school, has laid a strong foundation for her career. Kathryn brings over 10 years of experience in the food industry, primarily in quality roles, and has managed multiple Organic System Plans (OSP) in handling. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys reading, crafting, and spending quality time with her husband and two daughters. Kathryn's journey with the Spanish language spans over 25 years, including a minor in college and a term in Costa Rica, yet she humbly considers herself a continuous learner.

Erin Greene

Inspector

Erin Greene is an Inspector based in Eugene, Oregon. With over 20 years in organic agriculture, Erin graduated from Emerson College in the UK, specializing in Organic and Biodynamic Agriculture. Her expertise includes producing specialty culinary varietals that enhance sensory experiences with their texture, color, aroma, and flavor. Erin's agricultural interests are diverse, encompassing pollinator habitat building, flower farming, and floral design. She also supports local food access and chain resiliency. Passionate about the outdoors, Erin enjoys hiking, camping, mushroom hunting, gardening, and cooking. A fun fact: she started her first farm business at age 8, selling cut flowers to a local florist.

Eric Malone

Inspector

Giavanna Accurso

Inspector

Giavanna Accurso is deeply engaged with specialty crops, exploring the unknown when it comes to plants and production across different regions, from the Midwest to the West Coast. Her interests include sailing, watching fireflies, and savoring wine around campfires, reflecting her appreciation for nature's simple pleasures. Giavanna spends her spare time cooking, hiking, and immersing herself in books. She also has a keen affinity for trashy television, often weaving Love Island references into conversations. Her diverse hobbies and unique insights into agriculture enrich her professional and personal interactions.

David Anderson

Inspector

Mellisa DuBray

Inspector

Noel Deehr

Inspector

Haley White

Inspection Administrative Assistant

Shani Crist

Inspection Administrative Assistant

Kayti Lyda

Inspections Coordinator

A firm believer in the power of knowledge and a Central Texas transplant. Master of sarcasm and dry humor. Takes every opportunity to color code at work. Fun Fact: Kayti collects fancy rocks and dog-ears every book she reads (except borrowed books).

Demetrice Dockery

Inspector

Communications and Marketing

(503) 378-0690 media@tilth.org

Edward Johnson III

Communications and Marketing Director

Allison Keir

Senior Communications and Marketing Strategist

Allison Keir is the Senior Communications and Marketing Strategist. Originally from the seacoast of New Hampshire, Allison brings over 15 years of experience in film production and digital marketing, working with companies across New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, and Portland. Her diverse industry background includes film, higher education, agriculture, health and wellness, oceanography, and more. A creative and driven content marketer, Allison specializes in brand and content marketing, digital advertising, and producing documentaries and commercial films. Passionate about environmental causes, she spends her free time outdoors snowboarding, surfing, hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying time with friends.

DeAngelo Scott

Digital Marketing Specialist

DeAngelo Scott, is the Digital Marketing Specialist based in Baltimore, MD with over eight years of experience in the field. He's passionate about creativity, technology, and storytelling. DeAngelo's interests range from content creation to fitness and graphic design, with hobbies in movies, sports, and art. A lover of warm weather and good sushi, he cherishes his East Coast adventures. Notably, he spent two years capturing the essence of Baltimore through his 'Faces of Baltimore Photo Project,' showcasing his deep community connection. DeAngelo believes in embracing life's adventures and the power of curiosity.

Levi Fredrikson

Senior Applicant Experience Specialist

A wetsuit wearing empathizer. I crave x-files re-runs and cheap phó. Nothing should be done without first passing gas. Fun Fact: At best, 10 percent of my jokes get a laugh. The other 90 percent are the funny ones.

Janae Betterton

Client Experience Specialist

Education and Advocacy

(503) 378-0690 education@tilth.org

Ben Bowell

Education and Advocacy Director

Ben Bowell is the Deputy Director of Education and Advocacy, based in Portland, Oregon. He oversees education programs, advocacy activities and partnerships and has worked for Oregon Tilth for over 10 years. Ben serves on the Governing Council of the Organic Farmers Association and the Board of the Oregon Organic Coalition. Prior to Oregon Tilth, he worked for American Farmland Trust advocating for the protection and sustainability of working lands. He has a B.A. from Wake Forest University and a M.S. from Tufts University’s Agriculture, Food, and Environment Program. Outside of work, he enjoys time with family, backpacking, cycling and anything else outdoors.

Marina Oriel

Conservation Program Manager

Meet Marina Oriel, Oregon Tilth’s Conservation Program Manager based in Portland, Oregon. Marina holds a BS in Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Vermont and a MS in Sustainable Food Systems from Green Mountain College. Before coming to Oregon Tilth, Marina taught farm and food classes for all ages and worked for a nonprofit that supports food sovereignty and agricultural development projects with coffee farmers in Guatemala. Today, Marina works to expand the support network for organic producers and help them meet their conservation goals through programs offered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Outside of work, Marina enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family.

Natalie Hardwicke

Education Program Manager

Hanna Deacon

Organic Transition Program Manager

A firm believer in the power of communication and originally from Alaska. Master of tea drinking and houseplant parenting. Takes every opportunity to organize projects at work. Fun Fact: I absolutely love potatoes in all their forms (although hash browns are the best).

Carolyn Candela

Organic Transition Program Coordinator

Elise Nowack

Organic Conservation Specialist

Elise Landres, an Organic Conservation Specialist based outside of Raleigh, NC, is a dedicated advocate for sustainable practices in agriculture. With a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sustainability and minors in Biology, Geoscience, and Political Science, Elise's journey began with an internship at an Aquaculture start-up before transitioning into Agriculture. After a brief venture into healthcare, Elise returned home to Ag. Their passion for education extends beyond the workplace, as they regularly volunteer at the NC Science Museum, sharing their love for learning with others. Outside of work, Elise enjoys gardening, skateboarding, and building Lego. Fun fact: they love to travel and have visited 17 countries so far.

Kristina Peterson

Organic Conservation Specialist

Kristina Peterson is the Organic Conservation Specialist based in Portland, Oregon. A native Oregonian, she earned her B.S. in Environmental Studies with double minors in Biology and Special Education from the University of Oregon. With a strong commitment to environmental education and community engagement, Kristina has built a diverse background, including work at a nature center for a local park and recreation district, a year of AmeriCorps service with the National Wildlife Federation and Association of Northwest Steelheaders, agricultural experience with a Soil and Water Conservation District, and serving on the Community Advocacy Council for the Oregon Zoo. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, baking, and kayaking. Fun fact: Kristina holds three black belts in Tae Kwon Do.

Colene Reed

Organic Conservation Specialist

Bridget Pneuman

Organic Conservation Planner

Bridget (she/her/hers) serves as the Organic Conservation Planner based out of Eugene, Oregon. With a background in biology and diverse conservation field experience, she is strongly dedicated to private land conservation, honoring the land, and supporting those who steward it. Bridget also holds a GIS certificate and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in natural resource management. An avid nature lover, she enjoys foraging for mushrooms, identifying plants, and exploring Oregon’s forests. At home, she shares her space with her beloved pets: Wiggles the dog, a bearded dragon, ball python, and a leopard gecko.

Claire Davis

Technical Specialist-Education

Claire Davis is a Technical Specialist based in Reno, Nevada. A late bloomer in the farming world, she initially started out her career as a renewable energy engineer. After a few years, the siren song of growing food couldn't be ignored, and she spent the next 3 years learning on and managing small, diversified vegetable farms in the Reno area. Now she assists other producers in navigating organic regulations and becoming certified themselves. Her personal mission is to help build community in the organic industry. Outside of work, Claire enjoys cooking, pottery, and exploring Nevada's vast wilderness.

Finance and Administration

(503) 378-0690 organic@tilth.org

Renee Kempka

Finance and Administration Director

A yoga pant wearing finance faerie. I crave spreadsheets and random jokes. Nothing should be done without a dose of creativity. Fun Fact: I won a beauty and talent pageant in high school.

Jacob Messer

Financial Services Specialist

A firm believer in the power of Greyskull. Master of the Universe and dad jokes. Take every opportunity to listen and learn at work. Fun Fact: Father of three eye-rolling children.

Cindy Harkey

Payroll and Benefits Specialist

A firm believer in the power of balance and being open minded and an Oklahoma native. Master of cooking on an open fire and enjoy all thing art related. Takes every opportunity to be here for YOU at work. Fun Fact: I have a 9ft coffee bar yielding roughly 60 coffee cups #notashamed

Vicki Epperson

Financial Services Lead

Vicki L. Epperson serves as the Finance Administrator in Eugene, Oregon. Her role capitalizes on her strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in managing financial operations. Vicki has a diverse set of interests that include spending quality time with her family and kitty, as well as a love for flowers, chocolate, hard rock music, and bringing smiles to those around her. Her hobbies are as varied as her tastes, encompassing paddleboarding, Tai Chi, and photography. Vicki is a state champion in water polo, highlighting her determination and team spirit.

Abigail Soto

Grants Financial Manager

Carly McClean

Financial Services Coordinator

Brittany Klemm

Administrative Assistant

Brittany "BK" Klemm is the Administrative Assistant based in Corvallis, OR. She has an enriching background in earth sciences and anthropology with a focus in food, culture, and social justice. BK brings years of administrative experience and a passion for volunteering, sustainable living, and supporting local entities. Her hobbies include cycling, reading, backpacking, and thrifting. She enjoys hosting movie nights with her close friends and family and crafting micro-crochet jewelry and macramé wall hangings. BK embodies a blend of professional acumen and creative flair.

IT

(503) 378-0690 organic@tilth.org

Joel Borjesson

Senior Systems Administrator

A firm believer in the power of self and Oregon native. Master of kitchens and crushing it. Takes every opportunity to get a smile at work. Fun Fact: I am deficient in fun facts.

Noah Levine

IT Operations and Project Lead

A firm believer in the power of technology and Corvallis resident. Master of over-caffeinating and eater of breakfast food. Takes every opportunity to help someone out at work. Fun fact: I’m technically a cyborg.

Suresh Adichithara

Data and Reporting Analyst

A Can-Do Attitude

Executive Leadership

Certification

Client Services: Blue Team

Client Services: Green Team

Client Services: Indigo Team

Client Services: Orange Team

Client Services: Red Team

Client Services: Yellow Team

Quality and Accreditation

Inspections

Communications and Marketing

Education and Advocacy

Finance and Administration

IT

SEE YOURSELF AS PART OF
TEAM #TILTHNATION?

SUBSCRIBE OR FOLLOW US #tilthnation

Our Services

Apply

Already Certified

Contact Us

Contact Us

Help Center

Help Center

Our work

About Tilth

Executive Leadership

Certification

Client Services: Blue Team

Client Services: Green Team

Client Services: Indigo Team

Client Services: Orange Team

Client Services: Red Team

Client Services: Yellow Team

Quality and Accreditation

Inspections

Communications and Marketing

Education and Advocacy

Finance and Administration

IT

SEE YOURSELF AS PART OF TEAM #TILTHNATION?

SUBSCRIBE OR FOLLOW US #tilthnation

SEE YOURSELF AS PART OF
TEAM #TILTHNATION?