meet the wild team
Development Director
Trish Carter
Operations Director
Rehabilitation Director
Carly Corbin
Jess Andersen
Hospital Director
Jen Riley, DVM
Board Chair
Iara Lacher, PhD
Executive Director
Annie Bradfield
Sabrina Adleson
Rehab Associate
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Chris Rizzo, LVT
Associate Veterinarian
Emily Hsieh, DVM
Rehabilitation Director
Jessica Andersen
Hospital Director
Jen Riley, DVM
Front Office Coordinator
Karlye Smith
Front Office Coordinator
Audrie Wieber
Sydnie Matda
Rehab Fellow 2025
Sydney Lewis, DVM
Veterinary Fellow 2025-2026
Wildlife Education Specialist
Ashton Bohince
Alysa Everly
Sr. Wildlife Education Specialist
Education Fellow 2024-2025
Rena Klapp
Building & Grounds Manager
Morgan Powell
Development Director
Trish Carter
Operations Director
Carly Corbin
Development Coordinator
Hannah Roth
Beatrice von Gontard
Co-Founder & Board Emeritus
Secretary
Matthew Sheedy
Treasurer
Mark Merrill
Vice-Chair
Heather Shank-Givens
Chair
Iara Lacher, PhD
Allyson Degrassi, PhD
Cab Grayson
Russ McKelway
Heidi Lesinski
Franny Kansteiner
Emily Ristau
Patricia Robinson
Directors
Christine Adams, DVM
Lydia Best
Bethann Beeman
With a robust background in nonprofit development and management, Annie has dedicated her career to advancing the missions of various organizations since 2009. Her experience includes key roles at Shenandoah University, American Bird Conservancy, the NIH Foundation, and Project HOPE, where she honed her skills in fundraising, organizational leadership, and strategic planning.
Annie earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and History from Shenandoah University, where she developed a deep interest in both animal and human behavior and historical context, which now inform her approach to leadership and conservation. Having lived in Northern Virginia since the 1990s, she is deeply connected to the community and is passionate about preserving its natural heritage.
Currently residing in Winchester with her husband and four children, Annie is an avid birder and nature enthusiast. She spends her free time hiking, gardening (exclusively with native plants), and exploring new destinations, always seeking to connect with the natural world.
Executive Director
Annie Bradfield
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Dr. Jennifer Riley, widely known as “Dr. Jen,” is the accomplished Hospital Director of Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. Her career in wildlife medicine began with a degree in Animal Science from Cornell University, where her commitment to animal welfare first took root. She then pursued her veterinary studies at Tufts University in Massachusetts, focusing on wildlife medicine and gaining specialized training essential for her future work.
Dr. Jen’s professional journey has spanned diverse environments and roles. She honed her skills internationally at The Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic, and later at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife in Sanibel, Florida, where she dedicated her expertise to the rehabilitation of orphaned and injured wildlife. Her work continued at Lion Country Safari in West Palm Beach, Florida, an AZA-accredited zoological park, where she served as a veterinarian, leveraging her advanced surgical skills and medical knowledge in a challenging setting.
Now at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center, Dr. Jen’s extensive experience and dedication are integral to our mission. As Hospital Director, she oversees the medical care of every patient, exemplifying a steadfast commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
Hospital Director
Jen Riley, DVM
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Trish brings extensive experience and expertise in development and fundraising to Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. With a notable career that includes roles as Director of Development at the Piedmont Environmental Council, where she led impactful initiatives for four years, and as Assistant Director of Development at the Providence Hospital Foundation for eight years, Trish has a proven track record in securing major gifts, crafting successful grant proposals, and executing complex events.
In 2009, she earned the Certified Fundraising Executive designation, highlighting her commitment to excellence in the field. Her leadership was further demonstrated through her two-year presidency at the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Mobile, Alabama Chapter.
A passionate advocate for land conservation and youth education, Trish believes in the importance of instilling respect and care for wildlife in future generations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of South Alabama, with concentrations in English, Sociology, and Psychology, which has equipped her with a broad and insightful perspective on community needs and conservation.
Outside of work, Trish is a dedicated horsewoman, avid tennis player, and enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking and travel with her family. Her depth of experience and commitment to our mission make her an invaluable asset to the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center.
Development Director
Trish Carter
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Carly joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in early 2021 as a Front Office Associate and quickly advanced to become our Operations Director, where she now plays a vital role in managing the Center’s day-to-day operations. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to efficiency ensure the seamless functioning of all administrative and operational aspects of BRWC.
In this key role, Carly oversees the logistical framework that supports the Center’s mission, contributing significantly to our success in wildlife conservation. Her organizational skills, along with her dedication, keep BRWC running smoothly and allow us to continue delivering exceptional care and service.
Outside of work, Carly enjoys finding joy in simple pastimes, whether it's searching for four-leaf clovers or spending quality time with her two children. Her commitment to BRWC and her positive energy make her an invaluable part of our team, guiding us toward a strong and sustainable future.
Operations Director
Carly Corbin
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/ Assistant Secretary of the Board (non-voting role)
Since joining Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in January 2015, Jess has been a steadfast advocate for wildlife welfare and a valued member of our team. Her path in wildlife conservation began with a year-long Senior Apprentice internship at the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Sanctuary in Kendalia, Texas, where she refined her skills in animal care. She also gained valuable experience during an internship at the Marine Mammal Rescue Center in California, deepening her expertise in wildlife rehabilitation.
A Baltimore native, Jess graduated with distinction from Randolph College in 2013, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. Her academic background and field experience form the foundation of her commitment to wildlife. Jess is also a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator through the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, an accreditation that underscores her dedication and skill in this vital work.
Outside her professional role, Jess’s passion for wildlife remains a central part of her life. Her expertise, dedication, and compassion make her an essential contributor to our mission to protect and rehabilitate local wildlife. Jess exemplifies the powerful impact one person can make in the lives of the animals we serve.
Rehabilitation Director
Jess Andersen
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Sabrina joined BRWC in May, however her conservation journey started many years ago!
Having always loved animals, Sabrina received her Bachelors of Science in Organismal/Environmental Science and a Masters of Science in Environmental Science from Christopher Newport University.
After graduation she took on a variety of positions including bat researcher in Nevada and Fiji, animal behavior observation at the Virginia Zoo, Marine Mammal rescue and response with the Alaska Sealife Center, and sea turtle research and conservation in Costa Rica!
She originally interned at BRWC in summer 2019 but has returned year after year as a volunteer, seasonal, and now as a full-time rehabber!
When not working with animals she is either teaching martial arts, birding, or hanging out with her pet lizards.
Rehabilitation Associate
Sabrina Adleson
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Ashton joined BRWC in June 2023 as a Summer Education Associate, before becoming the center’s Education Coordinator.
Ashton is a Northern Virginia native. While growing up in Loudoun County, he developed a love and appreciation for native wildlife. After attending Christopher Newport University, he decided to pursue his passion of wildlife education. In his free time, Ashton goes hiking, goes to concerts, and spends time with his dog.
Wildlife Education Specialist
Ashton-William Bohince
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Alysa is a recent graduate of Shenandoah University with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies and minors in Biology and Music.
She joined the BRWC team in September 2022 after working at the Center as a Summer Education Associate.
She loves spending time outdoors and with animals, and is excited to work with wildlife and help conserve natural habitats as well as teach people to coexist with wildlife.
Sr. Wildlife Education Specialist
Alysa Everly
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Emily Hsieh, DVM got her start in veterinary medicine while working on her undergraduate degrees in Animal Science and Graphic Design at the University of California, Davis.
Between the UC Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital, local wildlife centers, and the Oakland Zoo, she was fortunate to have worked hands-on with a little of everything from laboratory mice to elephants. Hooked on species diversity, as a veterinary student at Western University of Health Sciences in Southern California, Dr. Hsieh’s studies included externships at Wildlife Safari in Oregon, the Wildlife Center of Virginia, and the Belize Wildlife and Referral Center.
After graduating in 2018 and finding emergency stabilization to be a major part of wildlife care, she pursued a rotating internship heavily focused on exotic and small animal emergency medicine at Pet Emergency and Specialty Center in San Diego, CA.
She continued to hone these skills while servicing a number of different clinics as a relief veterinarian in Orange County – however, Dr. Hsieh is excited for the transition to wildlife full-time and joining the BRWC team in January 2022!
Associate Veterinarian
Emily Hsieh, DVM
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Morgan joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center as the Building & Grounds Manager in January 2023. Prior to joining BRWC he worked on a farm sanctuary for horses, and before that ran his own pet care business.
He has always enjoyed working with his hands and is excited to join that with his passion for animals and interests in wildlife and the environment. He grew up in Los Angeles, CA and now lives in Winchester, VA with his wife and daughter.
Building & Grounds Manager
Morgan Powell
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Chris became the Center's Licensed Veterinary Technician in 2024 and been an amazing addition to the team!
After graduating from Delaware Valley University with a B.S. in Biology she went on to get an Associates in Veterinary Technology from Penn Foster College.
Over the past 9 years, Chris has cared for animals at places like Lehigh Valley Zoo, Virginia Safari Park, and The Naples Zoo, and her love for conservation has taken her to South Africa, Namibia, and China for volunteer work.
Outside of work, you'll find Chris lost in a book, exploring the outdoors, or traveling.
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Christiana Rizzo, LVT
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Hannah joined BRWC in August 2024 after volunteering in the development department. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, she developed a passion for wildlife while hiking the trails of the Cleveland Metroparks and taking naturalist classes.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History and moved to Virginia to work on various government contacts. To further develop her organization and administrative skill sets, she then earned a Master of Public Administration. After five years of government work, she decided to bring her skills to the nonprofit sector, and she is now thrilled to work for BRWC's mission.
Outside of BRWC, Hannah is an organizer of a music and arts festival in Southern Ohio and plays the saxophone in a swing band. In her spare time, she enjoys recording ultrasonic vocalizations of bats, studying bugs and insects on hikes, and seeking out live music. She lives in Winchester with her husband and three indoor cats.
Development Coordinator
Hannah Roth
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Karlye grew up in Frederick County, MD then pursued her interest in life science by attending Towson University and earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. She, worked in health care for several years until 2023.
Karlye has always loved exploring the outdoors, caring for animals and conserving our natural spaces, inspiring her to begin volunteering with the Education Department at BRWC in February of 2024. She immediately felt welcomed by the BRWC family, and was hired as a full-time employee the following month. Karlye is so excited to learn more about native wildlife, as well as how to provide assistance to our community in caring for animals in need.
Sr. Front Office Coordinator
Karlye Smith
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Audrie is a 2023 graduate of Shenandoah University with a degree in Environmental Studies.
During her studies, she completed a project in collaboration with the BRWC that displayed different ways of protecting birds from window/building collisions. Audrie also had the opportunity to do an internship with our Education Department in the summer of 2022.
During both of these experiences I have had previously with the BRWC, I got to know not only the ambassadors, but the employees as well. I am so excited to be a full-time member of the team, and see what more adventure there is to be had here.
Front Office Coordinator
Audrie Wieber
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Dr. Iara Lacher is the owner of Seven Bends Nursery LLC, a native plant nursery that focuses on sustainable horticulture and ecosystem-based landscaping. Her professional career has been guided by nearly two decades of advocacy for native plants and by helping residents of this region understand how landscaping choices influence water quality, soil health, and wildlife diversity. Through Seven Bends Nursery, Iara has developed and managed budgets, supervised staff, and partnered with conservation organizations to implement habitat restoration projects on private properties. These responsibilities have required careful planning and compliance with state and local environmental standards, giving her practical experience relevant to nonprofit oversight at BRWC.
Iara holds degrees in Botany, Environmental Science and Management, and Ecology, academic training that shapes her approach to governance at BRWC. She has worked in conservation and planning circles through her research at the Smithsonian Institute, where she helped connect science to policy to achieve sustainability goals. At the Center, Dr. Lacher supports evaluation of programs, facilities planning, and financial review so BRWC can continue to treat hundreds of species of native wildlife. As Chair, she encourages science-based decision making and believes that ethical stewardship of donor resources must remain central to Board deliberations. Dr. Lacher views wildlife rehabilitation, education, and research as interconnected tools for ecosystem health and is committed to advancing BRWC’s long-term sustainability.
Iara Lacher, PhD – Chair
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Committees: Executive (Chair), Education, Development, Finance, Governance
Year Joined: 2022
Heather Shank-Givens is currently a Training and Professional Development Specialist for We Are Sharing Hope SC, the organ procurement organization for South Carolina, where she designs curriculum and oversees workforce development for clinical teams. Prior to that position, Heather worked for the Washington Regional Transplant Community for 18 years and also served with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency after graduating from Oberlin College. Her professional experiences include program oversight, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and collaborative leadership in complex nonprofit healthcare environments. These responsibilities provide Heather with strong perspective relevant to Board-level oversight at BRWC.
Heather joined BRWC as a volunteer in 2017 and has helped care for thousands of patients from songbirds to raptors. She has mentored new volunteers and interns, strengthening experiential learning pathways at the Center. Originally from Ohio, Heather has lived in the D.C. and Virginia area for more than twenty years and now resides in Haymarket and Loudoun County with a menagerie of animals including ducks, chickens, cats, a hermit crab, a tarantula, and bees. Most recently, Heather spent two months in South Africa volunteering with VulPro, supporting rescue, rehabilitation, and captive breeding of endangered Cape Vultures. When not working or volunteering, Heather enjoys backpacking along the Appalachian Trail and supporting BRWC gala oversight. She is committed to advancing the Center’s holistic mission through compassionate wildlife care and strong governance.
Heather Shank-Givens – Vice Chair
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Committees: Education (Co-Chair), Executive, Finance
Year Joined: 2021
Mark H. Merrill retired in 2020 after 11 years of successful leadership as President and CEO of Valley Health System in Winchester, Virginia. His 35-year career in healthcare included senior roles at Texas Health Resources in Dallas and at MedStar Health in Washington, D.C., where he oversaw enterprise-level strategy, business development, and governance. Merrill served as board member from 2012 to 2020 and Chair in 2018 of the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association. He has also served on boards for United Way NSV, the American Heart Association Dallas Chapter, and the University of North Carolina Public Health Foundation. These responsibilities required oversight of multi-million budgets, audit processes, and regulatory compliance — experience directly relevant to stewardship of donor resources at BRWC.
Throughout his career, Merrill has been active in numerous charitable and civic organizations. In 2020 he was appointed by Governor Ralph Northam to a four-year term on the Commonwealth Transportation Board representing the Staunton District. He served on Go Virginia Region 8 Advisory Council from 2017 to 2025, Chair in 2024. Merrill continues to serve on Shenandoah University School of Business Advisory Board, Director and Treasurer of BRWC, and Director and Secretary of the Shenandoah National Park Trust. Merrill was recognized with United Way NSV Volunteer of the Year and Citizen of the Year by the Top of Virginia Chamber of Commerce in 2025. In 2021 Merrill completed training and was certified as a Virginia Master Naturalist. Merrill and his wife Teri reside in Winchester and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and beach walks. He is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission and responsible stewardship of resources.
Mark H. Merrill – Treasurer
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Committees: Finance (Chair), Executive, Governance
Year Joined: 2020
Matthew Sheedy is Secretary of the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Board of Directors and serves professionally as President and Founder of MJS Properties Inc., a national real estate development and investment firm. Across his career, Matt has led operational management, financial oversight, and long-term investment strategy for a diverse portfolio that includes commercial, residential, and retail developments in multiple states. Prior to founding MJS Properties, he was a partner with Trammell Crow Company, the largest commercial real estate development firm in the United States, where he helped guide complex projects requiring enterprise-level planning, budget discipline, contract negotiation, and responsible assessment of financial and operational risk. His academic training at Harvard Business School and Swarthmore College shaped his strategic approach to leadership and organizational oversight.
For more than three decades, Matt has also been engaged in wildlife conservation and environmental initiatives that complement his governance experience. He serves as an officer of GEOS Foundation, which has supported the restructuring and management of anti-poaching operations across approximately eight million acres of national parkland in four African countries, work that requires careful program evaluation and ethical stewardship of philanthropic resources. Matt previously served on the Board of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation and was President and Co-Founder of Virginians for Sensible Energy Policies. He has been a volunteer and financial supporter of wildlife projects in Africa, Central and South America, South and Central Asia, and the United States. Matt and Vicki Bendure reside on their farm in Delaplane, placed in conservation easement, where both remain actively engaged in creating and protecting wildlife habitat, a connection that informs his mission-focused service to BRWC and his commitment to responsible oversight of the Center’s growing programs.
Matthew Sheedy - Secretary
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Committees: Governance, Executive, Development
Year Joined: 2022
Beatrice Busch von Gontard has worked on behalf of wildlife and the environment her whole life.
In addition to Blue Ridge Wildlife Center, she serves on the boards of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Shenandoah University, as well as the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute's Virginia Working Landscape Committee which promotes biodiversity through sustainable land and farming practices.
She and her husband, Adie, own a farm near Front Royal which produces hay and small grains while, at the same time, provides breeding, nesting, and overwintering habitat to many native species, including bobolinks and short-eared owls.
Co-Founder of BRWC and Board Director Emeritus
Beatrice von Gontard
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2000 - Present
Christine Adams is an equine veterinarian with more than 35 years of experience in clinical veterinary medicine and animal husbandry. She completed undergraduate and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees at Tufts University and owns an independent equine veterinary practice focusing on reproduction and pediatrics in Northern Virginia. Dr. Adams worked as associate with Hagyard, Davidson & McGee and in group equine practice before launching her solo practice in 2022. Her professional identity reflects leadership, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and risk oversight that strengthen Board deliberations at BRWC.
Christine joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Board in 2025. She brings governance experience from service on the American Association of Equine Practitioners board and Executive Committee of the Kentucky Horse Council. Dr. Adams is responsible for clinical operations, financial oversight, and compliance review within her practice — experiences equally important to BRWC governance strength. She believes communities benefit when organizations like BRWC maintain clear ethics and compassionate wildlife care. Dr. Adams lives Loudoun County where she and her husband prioritized land conservation and habitat preservation. As Director Christine Adams is committed to advancing BRWC integrated mission of wildlife treatment, education, research, and professional training while stewarding donor resources responsibly across Clarke County and Northern Virginia and the Blue Ridge region.
Christine Adams, DVM
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Year Joined: 2025
Born in New York, Bethann relocated to Northern Virginia where she developed deep roots in the Middleburg community. With more than 20 years of experience in the finance industry in Tysons Corner, she built a strong foundation in business management, strategic growth, and leadership. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to transition from corporate finance to owning and operating multiple businesses, where she discovered passion for building teams and supporting local enterprise. These responsibilities included budgeting, compliance review, and risk oversight — experiences equally important to BRWC governance strength.
Bethann joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Board in 2023 and serves on Finance Committee and Gala planning. She resides on horse farm in Delaplane balancing professional and philanthropic pursuits. Beeman contributes expertise in finance, business strategy, and organizational development that strengthen Board deliberations at BRWC. She believes communities benefit when wildlife hospitals like BRWC maintain clear ethics and compassionate wildlife care. As Director Bethann is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission of wildlife treatment, public education, research, and professional training across Clarke County and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and the Blue Ridge region while stewarding donor resources responsibly.
Bethann Beeman
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Committees: Gala (Chair), Finance
Year Joined: 2023
Lydia Best is Vice President of Operations for a multi-unit franchise organization providing mobile pet grooming and pet services across more than 80 locations nationwide. Her professional identity centers on franchisee training, onboarding, and operational support. Lydia previously owned and operated a $1M pet services company, giving hands-on experience in small business management and client education — experiences equally important to BRWC oversight.
Lydia has supported animal welfare boards including the Humane Society of Loudoun County. She joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Board in 2025 and is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission of compassionate wildlife care, public education, research, and professional training while stewarding resources responsibly.
Bethann Beeman
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Year Joined: 2025
Dr. Allyson Degrassi is the Assistant Dean of Academic Innovation in the College of Arts and Sciences and an Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies and Biology at Shenandoah University. She earned her PhD from the University of Vermont, where her research examined the effects of invasive species on wildlife populations and habitat health. Her academic career has required the design and oversight of multidisciplinary programs that translate ecological science into practical action for students, landowners, and community partners. Allyson has worked in marine, intertidal, desert, and forest habitats, giving her broad technical understanding of ecosystem processes and species conservation. She teaches courses focused on ecological resilience, environmental sustainability, and wildlife management, roles that involve budget awareness, risk evaluation, and institutional governance experience relevant to BRWC.
At the first mention, Blue Ridge Wildlife Center, Dr. Degrassi joined the Board in 2022 after many years of collaboration with regional conservation and education initiatives. She co-chairs the Education Committee and has helped refine experiential learning pathways for BRWC interns, fellows, and public programs. Allyson brings expertise in conservation science, education leadership, and program evaluation that are equally important to BRWC oversight. She understands how growing wildlife hospitals must balance ethical treatment of individual animals with broader research and community benefits. Dr. Degrassi enjoys spending time in nature with her pack, and she believes that clear governance and science-based strategy strengthen BRWC’s ability to protect native species across Clarke County and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and the Blue Ridge region while stewarding donor resources responsibly.
Allyson Degrassi, PhD
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Committees: Education (Co-Chair)
Year Joined: 2022
Cab Grayson retired in 2023 as Senior Managing Director for CBRE Investment Management, a real estate investment manager with $160B in assets. His professional identity reflects decades of private-sector leadership in capital raising, acquisitions, dispositions, and pension plan relations. He served on the Texas and Virginia chapters of The Nature Conservancy boards of trustees, helping evaluate programs and steward resources responsibly. Grayson’s career included operational management, financial oversight, and long-term strategy for complex portfolios — experiences that translate directly to Board oversight at BRWC.
Originally licensed attorney in California since 1983, Emily relocated to Virginia in 1998 and has worked on varied restoration projects. Cab is part owner of Blue Ridge Farm, a thoroughbred horse business actively managed for wildlife and conservation. He serves on the board of Music in the Country whose proceeds go toward education for low-income children and on steering committees for Yale Alumni Real Estate and the Pension Real Estate Association. Grayson’s professional background required compliance review and risk oversight — equally important to BRWC governance strength. Cab believes communities benefit when organizations like BRWC maintain clear ethics and compassionate wildlife care. His connection to the Center reflects long-standing commitment to conservation education, research, and rehabilitation programs across Clarke County and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia. As Director he is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission.
Cab Grayson
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Committees: Development (Co-Chair)
Year Joined: 2023
Heidi has been a member of the BRWC Board of Directors since 2023 and brings a professional identity grounded in medicine and rehabilitation. She earned an MA in Occupational Therapy from Shenandoah University and completed a long career in research at the National Institute of Mental Health and at Walter Reed Army Hospital and in rehabilitation at Georgetown and Inova Fairfax hospitals. That physically demanding journey was interrupted by injury, after which Heidi transitioned to real estate in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region. Her professional experiences included budgeting, compliance review, and program oversight that strengthen Board deliberations at BRWC.
Heidi and her husband John have fostered several golden retrievers for GRREAT, raised five puppies for Canine Companions for Independence and Veterans Moving Forward, and hosted more than 40 students from Kansas for week-long immersion into the history and culture of Washington, D.C. Her connection to BRWC reflects commitment to experiential educational opportunities and research and to caring for native species. Lesinski has served on boards for Lift Me Up!, a therapeutic riding program, and for aging and women safety nonprofits. She believes communities benefit when wildlife hospitals like BRWC maintain clear ethics and strong governance. As Director Heidi is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission of compassionate wildlife care, public education, research, and professional training across Clarke County and Northern Virginia.
Heidi Lesinski
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Committees: Development, Finance
Year Joined: 2023
Franny Kansteiner is the CEO and designer of Gum Tree Farm, a Middleburg-based luxury merino wool brand that exemplifies sustainability and ethical production. Through her unique "farm-to-fashion" approach, Franny oversees every step of the process—from shepherding a flock of 300 merino sheep on her 100-acre farm to designing timeless, high-quality garments.
Franny’s commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical practices mirrors the mission of Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. Her dedication to sustainability reflects the Center's efforts to protect and preserve wildlife habitats. By promoting mindful consumption and fostering a deep connection to nature through her work, Franny aligns with the Center's educational and conservation goals.
As a BRWC board member, Franny brings her expertise in holistic systems and ethical practices to the table, championing efforts to balance human needs with environmental conservation. Her passion for local ecosystems and sustainable living makes her a natural advocate for the Center’s mission to protect wildlife and educate the community about conservation.
Franny Kansteiner
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Committees: Education, Governance
Year Joined: 2024
Russell McKelway is a physician and conservation advocate in the northern Shenandoah Valley. He completed medical school and a combined residency in psychiatry and internal medicine at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, later serving as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Internal Medicine at UVA. He is board certified in both specialties. Dr. McKelway chaired the Institutional Review Board at Winchester Medical Center in the 1990s, overseeing human research proposals across the Valley Health system for scientific rigor, informed consent, and confidentiality — experience directly relevant to oversight of clinical, ethical, and compliance standards at BRWC.
McKelway has served on varied boards including Preservation of Historic Winchester, Seniors First Meals on Wheels, the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, and the Millwood Country Club. He and his wife Lori placed their Clarke County farm in scenic easement more than 25 years ago and participate in USDA and Virginia Working Landscapes conservation programs focused on riparian restoration, sustainable grazing, and invasive species control. Dr. McKelway has supported BRWC for years including hosting summer interns and providing mentorship to fellows. His professional career required evaluation of programs, budgeting, and risk oversight that strengthen his perspective on BRWC integrated mission. McKelway remains active with UNC Gillings School of Public Health alumni council. Merrill believes donor resources should be stewarded responsibly. He is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission.
Russell McKelway, MD
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Committees: Governance (Chair), Finance, Development
Year Joined: 2017
As a licensed attorney in California since 1983, Emily Ristau brings wealth of legal expertise to the board. She relocated from California to The Plains, Virginia in 1998 and has demonstrated commitment to conservation on her own farm protected by a Virginia Outdoors Foundation scenic easement. Emily has served on boards for The Orange County Hounds and the Piedmont Environmental Council and has been recognized with Greater Piedmont Realtors awards. Her professional identity reflects governance, compliance review, and risk oversight — experiences equally important to BRWC stewardship.
Emily joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Board in 2023. She enjoys horseback riding and renovating houses, currently tackling her fourth major restoration project. Ristau contributes program advocacy and organizational oversight that strengthen Board deliberations at BRWC. She believes communities benefit when organizations like BRWC maintain clear ethics and compassionate wildlife care. As Director Emily Ristau is committed to advancing BRWC holistic mission of wildlife treatment, public education, research, and professional training across Clarke County and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and the Blue Ridge region while stewarding donor resources responsibly.
Emily Ristau
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Committees: Development (Co-Chair)
Year Joined: 2023
Pat Robinson is a retired attorney with a career that spanned more than three decades in financial institutions law and regulatory compliance. She served for 17 years as Assistant General Counsel at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, D.C., where she evaluated institutional risk frameworks, governance policies, and complex mergers and acquisitions. Pat later worked as Of Counsel at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen and Katz in New York City for 11 years, focusing on compliance oversight and long-term organizational sustainability. Earlier in her career, Pat was a secondary education teacher in Texas, experiences that shaped her practical and community-centered approach to leadership.
Pat joined the Board in 2023 after relocating to Winchester and Clarke County, where she has lived for 13 years. She brings prior nonprofit vestry and board service, emphasizing governance, executive sessions, and risk-aware oversight at BRWC. Chapel Springs, her 18-acre home property with a 2.5-acre spring-fed pond, are in conservation easement and provide nurturing habitat for wildlife. Pat shares Chapel Springs with two border collies, five cats, and numerous native species including foxes, raccoons, opossums, turtles, and many birds. Her personal connection to rural landscapes complements her professional identity and reinforces her mission-driven service to BRWC.
Pat Robinson believes communities benefit when wildlife hospitals like BRWC maintain clear ethics, compliance-aware governance, and compassionate care for individual animals. As Director, Pat Robinson is committed to advancing BRWC’s holistic mission of wildlife treatment, public education, research, and professional training while stewarding donor resources responsibly across Clarke County and surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and the Blue Ridge region.
Patricia Robinson
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