• Michael Gillogly

    on February 7, 2016

    BA, CA State University, Sacramento (Environmental Studies) Michael first arrived at Pepperwood in 1994, taking on the role of Land Steward and Resident Biologist for the California Academy of Sciences,…


    Continue reading

  • Ashton Figaro

    on July 24, 2026

    From a young age, Ash cultivated a deep appreciation for the natural world, often spending his formative years exploring the diverse landscapes around him. His journey into the realm…


    Continue reading

  • Alexander Ockenden

    on July 22, 2026

    Zander began his journey in natural resources at Santa Rosa Junior College, where he successfully completed the comprehensive Wildfire Resiliency Program. This program provided him with a robust foundation…


    Continue reading

  • Devyn Friedfel

    on March 16, 2017

    BA, UC Santa Cruz (Environmental Studies and Economics) California State Certified Burn Boss, as of 2022 MS, California State University, Chico (Wildland Management) Devyn Friedfel was born and raised in the Russian…


    Continue reading

  • Sonja Barringer

    on January 15, 2016

    Career Certificate, SRJC (Natural Resource Management and Watershed Management) Sonja’s early years in the picturesque Black Forest of Germany instilled in her a deep and abiding love for nature. Surrounded…


    Continue reading

  • Clint McKay

    on June 22, 2016

    Clint is the descendant of several important local culture bearers that include the late Laura Fish Somersal and the late Mabel McKay. He is a Native speaker of the…


    Continue reading

  • Shae Hopkins

    on March 6, 2024

    Shae’s passion to pursue a career in stewardship began when she discovered the Natural Resource Management program at the Santa Rosa Junior College. Her first experience in the field…


    Continue reading