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OUR TEAM

Thanks to your generous support, our talented staff is in the field every day to restore wetlands and oyster reefs, reduce pollution and engage all ages in meaningful volunteer and education experiences. Thanks for helping us help the river heal. Your gift makes all the difference.

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Lacy Shirey

Executive Director
lshirey@elizabethriver.org
757-828-4741
Lacy Shirey is an accomplished nonprofit professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and animal welfare. She has a degree in Biology from Christopher Newport University. Lacy serves on several boards and committees, including the WHRO Community Advisory Board and the Chesapeake Alliance Executive Board. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including being named a Top 40 Under Forty by Inside Business and receiving the Citizen of the Year award from the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council. Lacy’s passion for animals is matched by her deep dedication to community service and environmental sustainability. She is an active volunteer, leading quarterly community trash cleanups and fostering shelter pets. She is a beekeeper for Big Ugly Brewing and co-founder of COVA Recycles and Chesapeake Recycles. Lacy enjoys live local music, yoga, traveling, gardening, and woodworking.  She lives in southern Chesapeake with her three adopted dogs: two Bluetick Coonhounds, a Bloodhound, and two cats.
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Lacy Shirey

Executive Director
lshirey@elizabethriver.org
757-828-4741
Lacy Shirey is an accomplished nonprofit professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and animal welfare. She has a degree in Biology from Christopher Newport University. Lacy serves on several boards and committees, including the WHRO Community Advisory Board and the Chesapeake Alliance Executive Board. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including being named a Top 40 Under Forty by Inside Business and receiving the Citizen of the Year award from the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council. Lacy’s passion for animals is matched by her deep dedication to community service and environmental sustainability. She is an active volunteer, leading quarterly community trash cleanups and fostering shelter pets. She is a beekeeper for Big Ugly Brewing and co-founder of COVA Recycles and Chesapeake Recycles. Lacy enjoys live local music, yoga, traveling, gardening, and woodworking.  She lives in southern Chesapeake with her three adopted dogs: two Bluetick Coonhounds, a Bloodhound, and two cats.
Lacy Shirey
Executive Director
MarjorieWebsite
MarjorieWebsite

Marjorie Mayfield Jackson

Outgoing Executive Director
mmayfield@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4612
Marjorie Mayfield Jackson is the founding Executive Director. She left a dozen-year career as a newspaper writer to co-found the Elizabeth River Project around a kitchen table and has led the organization since its incorporation in 1993. “I did not want to accept a community that would abandon its home river as dead,” recalls Jackson of the founding. “Today I am tremendously proud of how far we’ve come as a community to bring the Elizabeth River to life.” Jackson holds a masters from Loyola University, trained extensively with the US Environmental Protection Agency in environmental risk management and in her previous career was nominated for a Pulitzer by the Virginian-Pilot. She lives on the Lafayette branch of the Elizabeth with her husband, Bob.
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MarjorieWebsite

Marjorie Mayfield Jackson

Outgoing Executive Director
mmayfield@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4612
Marjorie Mayfield Jackson is the founding Executive Director. She left a dozen-year career as a newspaper writer to co-found the Elizabeth River Project around a kitchen table and has led the organization since its incorporation in 1993. “I did not want to accept a community that would abandon its home river as dead,” recalls Jackson of the founding. “Today I am tremendously proud of how far we’ve come as a community to bring the Elizabeth River to life.” Jackson holds a masters from Loyola University, trained extensively with the US Environmental Protection Agency in environmental risk management and in her previous career was nominated for a Pulitzer by the Virginian-Pilot. She lives on the Lafayette branch of the Elizabeth with her husband, Bob.
Marjorie Mayfield Jackson
Outgoing Executive Director
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Pamela Boatwright

Deputy Director & River Star Businesses Manager
pboatwright@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5422
Pamela Boatwright is Deputy Director & River Star Businesses Manager with Elizabeth River Project. She has a BS in business administration with concentration in marketing and minor in international business from Old Dominion University. Pam has been with The Elizabeth River Project since 1994 and has been managing the River Star Businesses program since 2001. Pam works with industrial and organizational partners to carry out pollution prevention and/or habitat projects. Pam also provides administrative support to the organization. When she is not working, Pam is an avid boater and loves being out on the water.
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Pamela Boatwright

Deputy Director & River Star Businesses Manager
pboatwright@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5422
Pamela Boatwright is Deputy Director & River Star Businesses Manager with Elizabeth River Project. She has a BS in business administration with concentration in marketing and minor in international business from Old Dominion University. Pam has been with The Elizabeth River Project since 1994 and has been managing the River Star Businesses program since 2001. Pam works with industrial and organizational partners to carry out pollution prevention and/or habitat projects. Pam also provides administrative support to the organization. When she is not working, Pam is an avid boater and loves being out on the water.
Pamela Boatwright
Deputy Director & River Star Businesses Manager
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Phoebe Murrell

Interim Deputy Director – Restoration & River Star Homes Program Manager
pmurrell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 861-1821
A Norfolk native, Phoebe developed her love of the Elizabeth splashing barefoot in puddles (a practice that would now make her current stormwater-aware self cringe). She joined ERP as an intern in 2018 and worked in a variety of roles while completing her Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Virginia Wesleyan University. She left the organization in 2021 to pursue her Master of Public Policy from Duke University, where she focused on community- and data-informed policy innovation and became a truly insufferable Duke Basketball fan. She is thrilled to be back on the team now managing the River Star Homes program. She loves spicy food, escape rooms, and French. At the time of writing, she has a 553-day streak on Duolingo, but it’s probably way higher now. Enchanté!
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Phoebe Murrell

Interim Deputy Director – Restoration & River Star Homes Program Manager
pmurrell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 861-1821
A Norfolk native, Phoebe developed her love of the Elizabeth splashing barefoot in puddles (a practice that would now make her current stormwater-aware self cringe). She joined ERP as an intern in 2018 and worked in a variety of roles while completing her Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Virginia Wesleyan University. She left the organization in 2021 to pursue her Master of Public Policy from Duke University, where she focused on community- and data-informed policy innovation and became a truly insufferable Duke Basketball fan. She is thrilled to be back on the team now managing the River Star Homes program. She loves spicy food, escape rooms, and French. At the time of writing, she has a 553-day streak on Duolingo, but it’s probably way higher now. Enchanté!
Phoebe Murrell
Interim Deputy Director – Restoration & River Star Homes Program Manager
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susan

Susan Smith

Director of Development
ssmith@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-1422
Former Virginian Pilot reporter and Executive Director with the March of Dimes, Susan now champions the restoration of the Elizabeth River and urban waterways.
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susan

Susan Smith

Director of Development
ssmith@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-1422
Former Virginian Pilot reporter and Executive Director with the March of Dimes, Susan now champions the restoration of the Elizabeth River and urban waterways.
Susan Smith
Director of Development
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Casey Shaw

Director of Marketing & Communications
cshaw@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4331
Casey graduated from the College of William and Mary in 2009 and is a certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional.  As a Norfolk native, Casey grew up fishing and actively participates in the VIMS Game Fish Tagging Program. She is excited to work with the Elizabeth River Project and the greater Hampton Roads community to restore our home river.  
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Casey Shaw

Director of Marketing & Communications
cshaw@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4331
Casey graduated from the College of William and Mary in 2009 and is a certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional.  As a Norfolk native, Casey grew up fishing and actively participates in the VIMS Game Fish Tagging Program. She is excited to work with the Elizabeth River Project and the greater Hampton Roads community to restore our home river.  
Casey Shaw
Director of Marketing & Communications
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Summer Mace

Director of Education
smace@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4314
Summer has a Bachelor of Science in Biology, concentration in Marine Biology, from Old Dominion University. Starting as an educator on the Learning Barge in 2017, she quickly discovered her passion for environmental education and the importance of fostering meaningful and positive learning experiences for the next generation of river stewards. Now, as Director of Education, she leads efforts to engage the community in environmental stewardship. In her free time, Summer enjoys spending time with her daughter, husband, and two dogs. She loves trying new restaurants and is almost caught up on all seasons of Survivor.
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Summer Mace

Director of Education
smace@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4314
Summer has a Bachelor of Science in Biology, concentration in Marine Biology, from Old Dominion University. Starting as an educator on the Learning Barge in 2017, she quickly discovered her passion for environmental education and the importance of fostering meaningful and positive learning experiences for the next generation of river stewards. Now, as Director of Education, she leads efforts to engage the community in environmental stewardship. In her free time, Summer enjoys spending time with her daughter, husband, and two dogs. She loves trying new restaurants and is almost caught up on all seasons of Survivor.
Summer Mace
Director of Education
Luisa Black Ellis headshot
Luisa Black Ellis headshot

Luísa Black Ellis

Director of Resilience & Community Engagement
lblack@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4482
Luísa Black Ellis is a Brazilian-American poet, self-taught ecologist, and third-generation educator listening devotionally to the land and waters in traditional Chesapeake and Nansemond territory. She is the manager of the Elizabeth River Project’s Ryan Resilience Lab, a global model for coastal resilience, where she uses interdisciplinary art, science, and play to spark hope and action on behalf of the river’s future. She is a certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional I and she holds additional certifications in soil fungi consulting and sustainable urban farming. She has seven years of experience in landscape design and environmental project management, and over ten years of experience in adult education and grassroots community organizing. Luísa has the great privilege of being married to renowned artist JJJJJerome Ellis. They live together on a creek in Norfolk, VA, where they see at least one heron almost every day.
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Luisa Black Ellis headshot

Luísa Black Ellis

Director of Resilience & Community Engagement
lblack@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4482
Luísa Black Ellis is a Brazilian-American poet, self-taught ecologist, and third-generation educator listening devotionally to the land and waters in traditional Chesapeake and Nansemond territory. She is the manager of the Elizabeth River Project’s Ryan Resilience Lab, a global model for coastal resilience, where she uses interdisciplinary art, science, and play to spark hope and action on behalf of the river’s future. She is a certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional I and she holds additional certifications in soil fungi consulting and sustainable urban farming. She has seven years of experience in landscape design and environmental project management, and over ten years of experience in adult education and grassroots community organizing. Luísa has the great privilege of being married to renowned artist JJJJJerome Ellis. They live together on a creek in Norfolk, VA, where they see at least one heron almost every day.
Luísa Black Ellis
Director of Resilience & Community Engagement
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Larry LaPell

Park Operations Manager, Paradise Creek Nature Park
llapell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4748
After completing a 26 year Navy career, Larry completed his bachelor’s degree in Park and Recreation Management from Old Dominion University in 2018.  A certified Executive Chef and a Tidewater Master Naturalist, Larry combines his passion for outdoor recreation with his expertise in Culinary Arts to provide a unique insight into the connection we have to food and nature. When he is not working, Larry can be found paddling his kayak on Pretty Lake, taking pictures and picking up trash.
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Larry LaPell

Park Operations Manager, Paradise Creek Nature Park
llapell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4748
After completing a 26 year Navy career, Larry completed his bachelor’s degree in Park and Recreation Management from Old Dominion University in 2018.  A certified Executive Chef and a Tidewater Master Naturalist, Larry combines his passion for outdoor recreation with his expertise in Culinary Arts to provide a unique insight into the connection we have to food and nature. When he is not working, Larry can be found paddling his kayak on Pretty Lake, taking pictures and picking up trash.
Larry LaPell
Park Operations Manager, Paradise Creek Nature Park
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Jaye Hughes

Human Resources Manager
jhughes@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4532
 Jaye is a lifelong Virginia resident who graduated from Old Dominion University with a master’s degree in business administration in 2022. With a background in and passion for working with others, she loves all human-centered aspects of the workforce and helping people achieve their goals. Jaye is excited to further serve the community by being involved in ERP’s mission.
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Jaye Hughes

Human Resources Manager
jhughes@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4532
 Jaye is a lifelong Virginia resident who graduated from Old Dominion University with a master’s degree in business administration in 2022. With a background in and passion for working with others, she loves all human-centered aspects of the workforce and helping people achieve their goals. Jaye is excited to further serve the community by being involved in ERP’s mission.
Jaye Hughes
Human Resources Manager
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Shannon Yerabek

Learning Barge Education Manager
syerabek@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4216
Shannon graduated from James Madison University in 2022 with a B.S. in Geographic Science and a minor in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Climate Affairs. She started with the Elizabeth River Project as a Seasonal Educator on the Learning Barge in the Fall of 2022. She is now excited to continue educating our river stewards on the Learning Barge as a a Senior Environmental Educator!
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Shannon Yerabek

Learning Barge Education Manager
syerabek@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4216
Shannon graduated from James Madison University in 2022 with a B.S. in Geographic Science and a minor in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Climate Affairs. She started with the Elizabeth River Project as a Seasonal Educator on the Learning Barge in the Fall of 2022. She is now excited to continue educating our river stewards on the Learning Barge as a a Senior Environmental Educator!
Shannon Yerabek
Learning Barge Education Manager
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McKenzie Arrington

Restoration Administrative Coordinator
marrington@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4234
Mckenzie graduated from Appalachian State University in 2018 where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration – Management, and minored in Sustainable Development. She enjoys gardening and hiking with her partner and husky in her free time.
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McKenzie Arrington

Restoration Administrative Coordinator
marrington@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4234
Mckenzie graduated from Appalachian State University in 2018 where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration – Management, and minored in Sustainable Development. She enjoys gardening and hiking with her partner and husky in her free time.
McKenzie Arrington
Restoration Administrative Coordinator
MaryBattersonStewart

Mary Batterson Stewart

Accounting Specialist
mbattersonstewart@elizabethriver.org
757-780-5881
Mary, a Midwest native, found her passion for Hampton Road’s beautiful waterways and coastline upon relocating here. With a background in business operations management, she’s excited to deepen her involvement in the community and actively contribute to ERP’s mission within their Finance Department. In her free time, you can find her strolling around the Lafayette River taking in the beautiful sunsets with her husband, Wes, and her dogs.
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Mary Batterson Stewart

Accounting Specialist
mbattersonstewart@elizabethriver.org
757-780-5881
Mary, a Midwest native, found her passion for Hampton Road’s beautiful waterways and coastline upon relocating here. With a background in business operations management, she’s excited to deepen her involvement in the community and actively contribute to ERP’s mission within their Finance Department. In her free time, you can find her strolling around the Lafayette River taking in the beautiful sunsets with her husband, Wes, and her dogs.
Mary Batterson Stewart
Accounting Specialist
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Yolima Carr

Conservation Landscaping Curator, Paradise Creek Nature Park
ycarr@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4828
Yolima is a highly experienced horticulturist and landscape curator who has been one of our partners for many years.  She has over 25 years of experience working as a horticulturist and curator including garden design, living shorelines, wetlands restoration, and conservation of habitat with emphasis in the use of native plants. Yolima received her bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from Bogota, Colombia and her Associate in Public Garden from the School of Gardening in Zaragoza, Spain. Since moving from Spain to Norfolk in 1993, Yolima has been fortunate to work at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, the Virginia Zoological Park, the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, and now at the Elizabeth River Project. “I am honored by the opportunity to lead a ‘horticulture-programing’ at such an amazing site and to further ERP and Paradise Creek Nature Park goals to connect the community especially the youth to nature, plants and conservation values of an urban park.”
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Yolima Carr

Conservation Landscaping Curator, Paradise Creek Nature Park
ycarr@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4828
Yolima is a highly experienced horticulturist and landscape curator who has been one of our partners for many years.  She has over 25 years of experience working as a horticulturist and curator including garden design, living shorelines, wetlands restoration, and conservation of habitat with emphasis in the use of native plants. Yolima received her bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from Bogota, Colombia and her Associate in Public Garden from the School of Gardening in Zaragoza, Spain. Since moving from Spain to Norfolk in 1993, Yolima has been fortunate to work at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, the Virginia Zoological Park, the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, and now at the Elizabeth River Project. “I am honored by the opportunity to lead a ‘horticulture-programing’ at such an amazing site and to further ERP and Paradise Creek Nature Park goals to connect the community especially the youth to nature, plants and conservation values of an urban park.”
Yolima Carr
Conservation Landscaping Curator, Paradise Creek Nature Park
FullSizeRender (3)
FullSizeRender (3)

Robin Dunbar

Special Projects Coordinator – Education
rdunbar@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4583
Robin has a twenty-five career with the Elizabeth River Project finding solutions to roadblocks and implementing one-of-a-kind projects such as the Dominion Energy Learning Barge. As a Ph.D. at Old Dominion University Public Administration and Urban Policy, her research focuses on environmental and water policy, and marine debris in industrial ports and harbors including the Elizabeth River. Currently, she is helping securing project funding for the education department. 
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FullSizeRender (3)

Robin Dunbar

Special Projects Coordinator – Education
rdunbar@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4583
Robin has a twenty-five career with the Elizabeth River Project finding solutions to roadblocks and implementing one-of-a-kind projects such as the Dominion Energy Learning Barge. As a Ph.D. at Old Dominion University Public Administration and Urban Policy, her research focuses on environmental and water policy, and marine debris in industrial ports and harbors including the Elizabeth River. Currently, she is helping securing project funding for the education department. 
Robin Dunbar
Special Projects Coordinator – Education
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Victoria Dunch

Resilience Research Coordinator
vdunch@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4675
Victoria Dunch is a certified environmental educator who is passionate about environmental issues and working with her community to make the world a better place. She grew up in Amherst, MA running cross country through the woods before moving to San Diego with her husband. Victoria worked with science teachers and students on the Community Engagement team, part of the Conservation Science team at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance for eight years before moving to Virginia Beach in 2023. She holds a degree in Environmental Science & Policy from Smith College and an MA in Biology through Miami University’s Project Dragonfly. In her free time, she likes to hike, travel, and try new restaurants.
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Victoria Dunch

Resilience Research Coordinator
vdunch@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4675
Victoria Dunch is a certified environmental educator who is passionate about environmental issues and working with her community to make the world a better place. She grew up in Amherst, MA running cross country through the woods before moving to San Diego with her husband. Victoria worked with science teachers and students on the Community Engagement team, part of the Conservation Science team at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance for eight years before moving to Virginia Beach in 2023. She holds a degree in Environmental Science & Policy from Smith College and an MA in Biology through Miami University’s Project Dragonfly. In her free time, she likes to hike, travel, and try new restaurants.
Victoria Dunch
Resilience Research Coordinator
Spider Crab and Kayla Nov 2019
Spider Crab and Kayla Nov 2019

Kayla Gradwell

Volunteer and Education Administrative Coordinator
kgradwell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5417
Kayla graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a B.S in Biology and an Interdisciplinary Minor in Conservation Leadership. She began working for the Elizabeth River Project in Fall 2018 as an educator on the Learning Barge. Now as the Volunteer Coordinator, she’s excited to engage with our community and help those looking to get their hands dirty with one of our volunteer programs!
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Spider Crab and Kayla Nov 2019

Kayla Gradwell

Volunteer and Education Administrative Coordinator
kgradwell@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5417
Kayla graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a B.S in Biology and an Interdisciplinary Minor in Conservation Leadership. She began working for the Elizabeth River Project in Fall 2018 as an educator on the Learning Barge. Now as the Volunteer Coordinator, she’s excited to engage with our community and help those looking to get their hands dirty with one of our volunteer programs!
Kayla Gradwell
Volunteer and Education Administrative Coordinator
Hailey-Lauritsen-headshot

Hailey Lauritsen

Environmental Educator
hlauritsen@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4885
Hailey graduated from George Mason University in 2020 with a B.A in Environmental and Sustainability Studies with a concentration in Conservation and Sustainability and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. She has always loved working with animals and kids, so she is very excited to be part of ERP’s environmental education team. In her free time, you can find her exploring the outdoors with her partner, spending time with her dog, and reading anything she can.
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Hailey Lauritsen

Environmental Educator
hlauritsen@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4885
Hailey graduated from George Mason University in 2020 with a B.A in Environmental and Sustainability Studies with a concentration in Conservation and Sustainability and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. She has always loved working with animals and kids, so she is very excited to be part of ERP’s environmental education team. In her free time, you can find her exploring the outdoors with her partner, spending time with her dog, and reading anything she can.
Hailey Lauritsen
Environmental Educator
Jamie Melvin
Jamie Melvin

Jamie Melvin

Engagement and EcoDistrict Manager
jmelvin@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5465
Jamie Melvin is passionate about the importance of community relations and community action. She has a bachelor’s degree in both Environmental Policy and Environmental and Sustainability Studies from George Mason University. She also has a master’s degree in Environmental Science and Advocacy for Social Justice and Sustainability from Antioch University New England. She has over 9 years of community engagement and education experience with the Fairfax County Park Authority and Virginia Beach Friends School, where she taught First Grade and was their Co-Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Jamie has been with the Elizabeth River Project since 2023, starting as their Engagement Coordinator. She has led the coordination of the Knitting Mill Creek EcoDistrict. She is the board secretary of the North Colley Business Association. She is also the secretary of the Colley Community Center board. Recently, she was selected to be a 2024 UN Oceans Decade Champion to continue and expand her work in creating inclusive programming for women and girls of color in STEM. When not working, you will most likely find Jamie at a gluten free bakery, thrift shop, sitting on the beach, reading a good book, or enjoying live music.
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Jamie Melvin

Jamie Melvin

Engagement and EcoDistrict Manager
jmelvin@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5465
Jamie Melvin is passionate about the importance of community relations and community action. She has a bachelor’s degree in both Environmental Policy and Environmental and Sustainability Studies from George Mason University. She also has a master’s degree in Environmental Science and Advocacy for Social Justice and Sustainability from Antioch University New England. She has over 9 years of community engagement and education experience with the Fairfax County Park Authority and Virginia Beach Friends School, where she taught First Grade and was their Co-Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Jamie has been with the Elizabeth River Project since 2023, starting as their Engagement Coordinator. She has led the coordination of the Knitting Mill Creek EcoDistrict. She is the board secretary of the North Colley Business Association. She is also the secretary of the Colley Community Center board. Recently, she was selected to be a 2024 UN Oceans Decade Champion to continue and expand her work in creating inclusive programming for women and girls of color in STEM. When not working, you will most likely find Jamie at a gluten free bakery, thrift shop, sitting on the beach, reading a good book, or enjoying live music.
Jamie Melvin
Engagement and EcoDistrict Manager
abbey-marquardt

Abbey Marquardt

Educator & Engagement Specialist
amarquadt@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4571
Abagail graduated from Penn State Harrisburg University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. She started with the Elizabeth River Project as a Seasonal Educator aboard the Learning Barge in the Fall of 2023. As the Education and Engagement Specialist she is excited to continue providing education to young river stars. As well as spread the Elizabeth River Project mission to local communities through events and volunteer opportunities.
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Abbey Marquardt

Educator & Engagement Specialist
amarquadt@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4571
Abagail graduated from Penn State Harrisburg University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. She started with the Elizabeth River Project as a Seasonal Educator aboard the Learning Barge in the Fall of 2023. As the Education and Engagement Specialist she is excited to continue providing education to young river stars. As well as spread the Elizabeth River Project mission to local communities through events and volunteer opportunities.
Abbey Marquardt
Educator & Engagement Specialist
Sarah-McBride
Sarah-McBride

Sarah McBride

School Outreach Coordinator
smcbride@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4932
Sarah has a M.S. in Biology with a concentration in Ecology from Old Dominion University. She worked as an environmental consultant for 10 years before staying home to raise two daughters. She has thoroughly enjoyed volunteering with their schools as the Green Team/Outdoor Classroom leader, and now that they are older and back in school, she is very excited to share her passion for our local environment with many other school children in the region. Feel free to contact her about environmental action projects for schools or field trips at Paradise Creek Nature Park!
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Sarah-McBride

Sarah McBride

School Outreach Coordinator
smcbride@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4932
Sarah has a M.S. in Biology with a concentration in Ecology from Old Dominion University. She worked as an environmental consultant for 10 years before staying home to raise two daughters. She has thoroughly enjoyed volunteering with their schools as the Green Team/Outdoor Classroom leader, and now that they are older and back in school, she is very excited to share her passion for our local environment with many other school children in the region. Feel free to contact her about environmental action projects for schools or field trips at Paradise Creek Nature Park!
Sarah McBride
School Outreach Coordinator
samantha-miller
samantha-miller

Samantha Miller

Environmental Project Manager
smiller@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4537
Samantha received her Master’s in Environmental Policy and Management in 2019 and her Bachelor’s in Fish and Wildlife Management in 2013 from American Military University. Prior to working for ERP, she spent 5 ½ years in the Navy where she fell in love with the ocean, leading to pursuing a career in environmental management. Samantha has traveled the world witnessing many different ecosystems and how each have distinctive attributes. She has volunteered for invasive species removal and native planting with the Ko’olou Mountains Watershed Partnership, helping preserve the Hawaiian native forest. While working with the ERP she hopes to promote a sustainable way of life through educating the public and restoring the Elizabeth River.
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samantha-miller

Samantha Miller

Environmental Project Manager
smiller@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4537
Samantha received her Master’s in Environmental Policy and Management in 2019 and her Bachelor’s in Fish and Wildlife Management in 2013 from American Military University. Prior to working for ERP, she spent 5 ½ years in the Navy where she fell in love with the ocean, leading to pursuing a career in environmental management. Samantha has traveled the world witnessing many different ecosystems and how each have distinctive attributes. She has volunteered for invasive species removal and native planting with the Ko’olou Mountains Watershed Partnership, helping preserve the Hawaiian native forest. While working with the ERP she hopes to promote a sustainable way of life through educating the public and restoring the Elizabeth River.
Samantha Miller
Environmental Project Manager
Pamela Northam
Pamela Northam

Pamela Northam

Education and Public Relations Associate
pnortham@elizabethriver.org
757-828-6107
From January 2018 to 2022 Pamela Northam used her experience as a former pediatric occupational therapist and science educator to lead the Northam Administration’s work to increase access to quality early childhood care and education. Funding for the Virginia Preschool Initiative more than doubled and capacity grew to a record number of students, adding three-year-olds for the first time ever. Previously, the First Lady served as community outreach coordinator for the environmental nonprofit Lynnhaven River NOW (LRN), where she oversaw advocacy and outreach programs for homeowners, congregations, and businesses to help them to become more sustainable. Prior to joining LRN, Mrs. Northam taught high school biology. Recognizing a need for STEM in elementary education, she became a national award-winning science specialist and worked to develop an inquiry-based, hands-on curriculum for students in grades K through 5. Mrs. Northam chaired both the Virginia Children’s Cabinet and the Virginia STEM Education Commission, and is currently a board member of Wetlands Watch, and Minus 9-5 at Eastern Virginia Medical School.
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Pamela Northam

Pamela Northam

Education and Public Relations Associate
pnortham@elizabethriver.org
757-828-6107
From January 2018 to 2022 Pamela Northam used her experience as a former pediatric occupational therapist and science educator to lead the Northam Administration’s work to increase access to quality early childhood care and education. Funding for the Virginia Preschool Initiative more than doubled and capacity grew to a record number of students, adding three-year-olds for the first time ever. Previously, the First Lady served as community outreach coordinator for the environmental nonprofit Lynnhaven River NOW (LRN), where she oversaw advocacy and outreach programs for homeowners, congregations, and businesses to help them to become more sustainable. Prior to joining LRN, Mrs. Northam taught high school biology. Recognizing a need for STEM in elementary education, she became a national award-winning science specialist and worked to develop an inquiry-based, hands-on curriculum for students in grades K through 5. Mrs. Northam chaired both the Virginia Children’s Cabinet and the Virginia STEM Education Commission, and is currently a board member of Wetlands Watch, and Minus 9-5 at Eastern Virginia Medical School.
Pamela Northam
Education and Public Relations Associate
Mandi-Pesha

Mandi Pesha

River Star Communication Specialist
mpesha@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4709
Mandi is originally from a small town in Illinois but moved here in 2020 to attend Virginia Wesleyan University, which she graduated from in 2024 with a BA in Earth and Environmental Sciences. After graduating from VWU, Mandi interned with the Nansemond Indian Nation for 10 weeks and learned so much about the environment and Hampton Roads areas. Since Mandi moved here, she’s always loved helping and volunteering with any living shoreline project she could. Mandi loves spiders and bugs and has over 30 plants in her house. Mandi loves to be outside and go to the beach.
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Mandi Pesha

River Star Communication Specialist
mpesha@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4709
Mandi is originally from a small town in Illinois but moved here in 2020 to attend Virginia Wesleyan University, which she graduated from in 2024 with a BA in Earth and Environmental Sciences. After graduating from VWU, Mandi interned with the Nansemond Indian Nation for 10 weeks and learned so much about the environment and Hampton Roads areas. Since Mandi moved here, she’s always loved helping and volunteering with any living shoreline project she could. Mandi loves spiders and bugs and has over 30 plants in her house. Mandi loves to be outside and go to the beach.
Mandi Pesha
River Star Communication Specialist
jpinsky-sm
jpinsky-sm

Jessica Pinsky

Ryan Resilience Lab Administrator
jpinsky@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5118
Passionate for the environment from a young age, Jessica is thrilled to have found her niche at the Elizabeth River Project. She has called Hampton Roads home for twenty years and is honored to put her efforts into assisting ERP’s mission. Jessica is also a playwright, director, and actor, and studied theatre at TCC and Virginia Western with a focus in performance. She’s appeared in productions around the state and manages a local theatre company geared towards young audiences. She lives with her partner in Willoughby, where she can often be seen chasing birds with her camera and picking up litter on the beaches.
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jpinsky-sm

Jessica Pinsky

Ryan Resilience Lab Administrator
jpinsky@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-5118
Passionate for the environment from a young age, Jessica is thrilled to have found her niche at the Elizabeth River Project. She has called Hampton Roads home for twenty years and is honored to put her efforts into assisting ERP’s mission. Jessica is also a playwright, director, and actor, and studied theatre at TCC and Virginia Western with a focus in performance. She’s appeared in productions around the state and manages a local theatre company geared towards young audiences. She lives with her partner in Willoughby, where she can often be seen chasing birds with her camera and picking up litter on the beaches.
Jessica Pinsky
Ryan Resilience Lab Administrator
jamie-ramsey

Jamie Ramsey

Youth Resilience Educator
jramsey@elizabethriver.org
757-828-4581
Jamie graduated from Randolph-Macon College in 2015 with a B.A. in Education and Studio Art. She has taught for nine years in K12 classrooms and is excited to use her skills with the environmental education team at ERP. In her free time, she enjoys doing various art projects and hanging out with her two dogs.
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Jamie Ramsey

Youth Resilience Educator
jramsey@elizabethriver.org
757-828-4581
Jamie graduated from Randolph-Macon College in 2015 with a B.A. in Education and Studio Art. She has taught for nine years in K12 classrooms and is excited to use her skills with the environmental education team at ERP. In her free time, she enjoys doing various art projects and hanging out with her two dogs.
Jamie Ramsey
Youth Resilience Educator
joshua-sawyer-profile-pic

Joshua Sawyer

Environmental Field Foreman
jsawyer@elizabethriver.org
757-906-0804
Currently working towards a Geography degree at Old Dominion University (ODU), Joshua joined ERP as a Seasonal River Star Home Assistant in June 2023. Having lived in Elizabeth River watershed their whole life, Joshua is committed to environmental stewardship on both a personal and professional level. Their deep understanding of the watershed influences their work, reflecting a genuine desire to see positive change in their community. Joshua hopes to encourage local residents to get involved in environmental issues and take part in restoring their shared environment.
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Joshua Sawyer

Environmental Field Foreman
jsawyer@elizabethriver.org
757-906-0804
Currently working towards a Geography degree at Old Dominion University (ODU), Joshua joined ERP as a Seasonal River Star Home Assistant in June 2023. Having lived in Elizabeth River watershed their whole life, Joshua is committed to environmental stewardship on both a personal and professional level. Their deep understanding of the watershed influences their work, reflecting a genuine desire to see positive change in their community. Joshua hopes to encourage local residents to get involved in environmental issues and take part in restoring their shared environment.
Joshua Sawyer
Environmental Field Foreman
ru-williams-headshot

‌Ru Williams

Environmental Justice Coordinator
rwilliams@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4635
Ru graduated from William and Mary in 2024 with a bachelors in Geology and a minor in sociology. While in college she focused her studies on environmental injustice, conducting research on the disproportionate effect the historical pollution that plagues the Elizabeth River Watershed has on the Black community. Her passion for social change and the upliftment of marginalized communities derives from her upbringing in a household that values the empowerment of BIPOC and has a strong, proud connection to their home country of Jamaica. In her free time, she enjoys lots of rest and relaxation, featuring a warm bath and jazz.
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‌Ru Williams

Environmental Justice Coordinator
rwilliams@elizabethriver.org
(757) 828-4635
Ru graduated from William and Mary in 2024 with a bachelors in Geology and a minor in sociology. While in college she focused her studies on environmental injustice, conducting research on the disproportionate effect the historical pollution that plagues the Elizabeth River Watershed has on the Black community. Her passion for social change and the upliftment of marginalized communities derives from her upbringing in a household that values the empowerment of BIPOC and has a strong, proud connection to their home country of Jamaica. In her free time, she enjoys lots of rest and relaxation, featuring a warm bath and jazz.
‌Ru Williams
Environmental Justice Coordinator

Board of Directors

Officers

Officers

President | Melissa Page Deutsch
Certified Personal Development Coach, Owner, Inner Voice
Immediate Past President | Ken Kimball
Senior Vice President, Lyon Shipyard
Vice President | Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston
president, norfolk state university
Adjunct Vice President | Ray W. King
Attorney, Woods Rogers, PLC
Treasurer | Dr. Maynard Schaus
Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, Virginia Wesleyan University
Secretary | Louis F. Ryan
retired general counsel, landmark

Directors

Directors

Aimee Batten
Community Leader
Cross Birdsong
Portfolio Analyst, Brown Advisory
Julie Chop
Real Estate Development Specialist, City of Portsmouth Economic Development Department
Hon. Courtney Doyle
senior director customer development and marketing, Sentara health
Del. Jackie Glass
Virginia House of Delegates, 93rd District
Susan Goode
Community Leader
Herb Haneman
President, Lindel Power Group
Burr Henderson
managing director,truist private wealth
Ryan Kenrick
attorney, Williams Mullen
Jeff Merritt
Market Vice-President, Cox Communications
Hon. Delceno Miles
president/ceo, the miles agency
Molly Mitchell, Ph.D.
Assistant Research Faculty SMS/VIMS and William and Mary, Director of Professional M.A. Program Center for Coastal Resources and Management, VIMS, Batten School of Coastal and Marine Science, William and Mary
Margie Mulholland, Ph.D.
Professor, Old Dominion University, Dept. Ocean and Earth Sciences
Chris Neikirk
Norfolk Southern, retired
Shannon Pierce
CEO, Virginia Natural Gas
Josh Priest
Retired Navy Engineer,  Naval Facilities Engineering Command
Carl “Alex” Retzloff
Attorney, McGuirewoods, LLP
Cameron Robinett
Chief investment officer, cock island capital
Mia Lefkowitz Robinson
Project Manager, Flooring Division, HAPAX
The Hon. Dr. Theresa Whibley MD
Retired Partner, Tidewater Physicians for Women
David White
Executive Director, Virginia Maritime Association

Ryan Resilience Lab Event Request

Thank you for your interest in the Elizabeth River Project’s Ryan Resilience Lab. We’re delighted that our site is in high demand. As the Ryan Resilience Lab is operated by a small non-profit with a big environmental mission, please help us make sure your event is a great fit.

Our priority is to host groups with relevance to our mission: to restore the Elizabeth River through equitable collaboration with diverse communities, governments, and businesses. When space and staff support are available, we are happy to host such groups free of charge, but do request that you consider an organizational membership and allow us to offer the opportunity for individual memberships.

Please fill this form out at least 30 days in advance of the event.

Our maximum for indoor seated events is 85 theater style and 45 classroom style. For standing receptions, the maximum is 100 indoors or 125 indoor-outdoor.
(restoring the Elizabeth River through equitable collaboration) and Ryan Resilience Lab (environmental resilience to sea level rise)
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Start Time(Required)
:
End Time(Required)
:
Set Up Time
:
Take Down Time
:
Set Up Preferences(Required)
Check all that apply
Audio/Visual Needs(Required)
Check all that apply

If given the go-ahead for our event, sponsor organization agrees to these Ryan Lab policies:

Yes, we will offer attendees the option to tour the Ryan Lab(Required)
Yes, Elizabeth River Project can make a 3-5 minute announcement at the start of the event regarding mission and ways to get involved(Required)
Yes, we will join the Elizabeth River Project as a dues-paying organization at a level commensurate with our size and the nature of our operations.
Please see member benefits for further information: https://elizabethriver.org/donor-circles/
Yes, we agree to sustainable/responsible event practices(Required)
Yes, we will adhere to start and end times (15-minute leeway) and will leave the room as clean as possible.(Required)

Additionally, sponsor organization agrees to these administrative/liability requirements:

  • ERP maintains insurance for its activities at the Ryan Lab. Sponsoring organizations should ensure that they have appropriate insurance coverage as well.
  • Weapons are prohibited.
  • Open flames generally are prohibited (special permission only).
  • Outdoor guests will be required to exit the Learning Park during thunder, lightning, high winds or any circumstance deemed hazardous by ERP.
  • Waiver of Claims: Sponsoring organizations agree to release, waive all claims, discharge, and covenant not to sue Elizabeth River Project, its officers, employees, volunteers, and agents from liability from any and all claims resulting in personal injury, accidents or illnesses and property loss arising from, but not limited to, participation in the event and related tours, due to the negligence of sponsor, sponsor's employees, or event participants.
  • Notice of Claims: Sponsor agrees to provide immediate notice to ERP if any participant either files, or threatens to file, a claim arising from or related to the event, so that ERP can notify its insurance carriers.
  • COVID Statement: Participants will monitor their own health prior to reporting to any Elizabeth River Project event/activity. If any signs or symptoms of infection are present, the individual must not report to the event.
  • Photo Release: Photos of the event may be shared as part of grant reporting or posted on Elizabeth River Project website/social media unless otherwise specified by the sponsor organization.
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Youth Water Monitoring Results

Entry Data

Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY
Time(Required)
:

Sample Data

Bacteria

Observations

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Accepted file types: jpg, png, heic, tiff, Max. file size: 256 MB.
    Add any field observation photos here