meet the wild team
Development Director
Trish Carter
Operations Director
Rehabilitation Director
Carly Corbin
Jess Andersen
Hospital Director
Jen Riley, DVM
Board Chair
Russ McKelway
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
Education Coordinator
Ashton Bohince
Alysa Everly
Education Manager
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
Bruce Anderson
Treasurer
Mark Merrill
Vice-Chair
Heather Shank-Givens
Chair
Russ McKelway
Bethann Beeman
Allyson Degrassi
Cab Grayson
Dr. Iara Lacher
Heidi Lesinski
Franny Kansteiner
Emily Ristau
Patricia Robinson
Matthew Sheedy
Directors
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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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.
Education & Outreach Coordinator
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.
Education & Outreach Manager
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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Russ grew up in Northwest Arlington and met his wife Lori (a former BRWC Board Member) while at medical school and residency at the University of Virginia.
Russ and Lori have lived in the valley since 1990 where they raised their two daughters and in 1997, they moved to Clarke County. It is ever more clear to him that the soil, the flora, and the fauna have all evolved together and must be preserved together. Given this belief, they placed their 100 acre farm in easement, are improving the quality and sustainability of their cattle farming practices, and are re-naturalizing riparian buffers on their property.
Russ has served on boards in the local area, including the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and the Preservation of History Winchester, and has supported the Center’s work in several ways, including housing summer interns for several years.
Chair of BRWC's Board of Directors
Dr. Russell McKelway
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2018 - Present
Heather has been a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer with BRWC since 2017 and is also the permit holder for an educational ambassador Turkey Vulture, Vega.
Heather is currently a Training and Professional Development Specialist for We Are Sharing Hope SC (the organ procurement organization for South Carolina) and prior to that worked for the Washington Regional Transplant Community for 18 years. Heather also worked for the US Environmental Protection Agency after graduating from Oberlin College.
Heather lives in Haymarket VA (Prince William County) with her husband and a menagerie of animals (ducks, chickens, cats, hermit crab, tarantula, bees, and of course, a vulture).
Originally from Ohio, she has lived in the DC and VA area for the past 20 yrs. Heather has been passionate about environmental and conservation issues throughout her life, having worked on projects in Costa Rica during college years, and most recently spending 2 months in South Africa volunteering with VulPro – supporting rescue, rehabilitation and captive breeding of endangered Cape Vultures.
When not working, volunteering, or studying, Heather enjoys backpacking along the Appalachian Trail.
Vice-Chair of BRWC's Board of Directors
Heather Shank-Givens
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2022 - Present
Mark Merrill recently retired as President and Chief Executive Officer of Valley Health System (Winchester, VA) after 11 years of successful service. During his tenure, the system expanded dramatically and has been recognized locally, regionally, and nationally for outstanding performance.
Mark has also held positions in hospital/health organizations in Dallas, TX and Washington, DC. His experience consists of hospital and health care system leadership, strategy development, operations, managed care contracting, business development, governance, and clinical program development and implementation.
Mark has been involved in numerous charitable and civic organizations, including serving on the boards of the American Heart Association North Texas Chapter, Senior Citizens of Greater Dallas, and American Diabetes Association, Dallas Chapter. He is currently a member of the Board of Our Health, the Winchester Medical Center Foundation, and the Shenandoah University School of Business Advisory Board.
Mark and his wife, Teri, have two adult children. He and his family enjoy outdoor activity, basketball, especially the North Carolina Tarheels, travel and exercise.
Treasurer of BRWC's Board of Directors
Mark Merrill
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2020 - Present
Bruce recently retired from the Hawaii State Department of Health after serving for more than 40 years. As Director of Health, he managed an annual operating budget of over $1 billion and over 3,000 dedicated healthcare professionals. Dr. Anderson also served as President and Chief Executive Officer (PCEO) of Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation (HHSC), the Public Health Hospital system in Hawaii, comprised of thirteen public health hospitals on all the major islands in Hawaii. As a side note for those who love oysters, shrimp and other seafood, he was also President of Oceanic Institute, where he led a team of over 70 scientists, researchers and support staff in developing and transferring new aquaculture technologies.
Bruce was born and raised in Hawai`i. He went to Punahou School, the same school as Barack Obama, and graduated from Colorado College with a degree in Physics. He earned a Master’s in Public Health from Yale University and a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from the University of Hawai`i in 1981. Shortly after his retirement, Dr. Anderson and his wife, Debbie, moved from Hawaii to Northern Virginia where they have a horse farm. When he is not mucking out horse stalls and taking care of horses, you will find Bruce and Debbie hiking along the Blue Ridge Mountains with their dogs, canoeing down the Shenandoah River, or fishing, somewhere. They hope their five children will be as lucky as they were in finding careers so rewarding and enjoyable.
Secretary of BRWC's Board of Directors
Bruce Anderson, PhD
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2020 - Present
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
Bethann Beeman brings extensive experience in finance and event planning to her role as a dedicated board member at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. Inspired by the Center’s tireless commitment to rehabilitating and releasing injured wildlife, as well as its impactful public education initiatives, Bethann became actively involved to help advance its mission of wildlife conservation.
As co-chair of the Center’s 2024 annual gala, Bethann skillfully combined her event planning expertise with her creative flair, arranging stunning floral displays that elevated the event’s atmosphere. For her, this role was more than logistics—it was an opportunity to contribute meaningfully while finding joy in the creative process.
Bethann also serves on the finance and development committees, where her expertise ensures the Center has the resources to sustain critical programs in wildlife rehabilitation, research, and education. Her strategic efforts have helped strengthen the Center’s financial health and community impact.
With years of philanthropic experience, Bethann is particularly impressed by Blue Ridge Wildlife Center’s focused mission and tangible outcomes. She believes that fostering community engagement and embracing innovation are key to overcoming challenges in the nonprofit sector. Looking ahead, she aspires to help the Center deepen its community connections, expand its reach, and inspire greater support for local wildlife conservation.
BRWC Board Director
Bethann Beeman
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2023 - Present
Dr. Degrassi is the Assistant Dean of Academic Innovation of 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 she studied the effects of invasive species on wildlife.
She has worked in marine, intertidal, desert, and forest habitats. She teaches courses focusing on ecological processes, environmental sustainability, and wildlife conservation.
Allyson works to help foster the creation and development of new, exciting, and applicable academic programs and pathways for Shenandoah University learners and looks for ways for ALL learners to gain hands-on experience in these fields.
She enjoys spending time in nature with her pack!
BRWC Board Director
Dr. Allyson Degrassi
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2023 - Present
Cab Grayson is a distinguished individual who has dedicated his career to both the corporate and conservation worlds.
As a retired Senior Managing Director at CBRE Investors, he boasts a wealth of expertise accumulated over 15 years with CBRE Global Investors and an additional 16 years at CB Richard Ellis Investors.
A Yale University alumnus, Cab's academic foundation in History has been complemented by a remarkable commitment to civic involvement. He has been actively engaged with The Nature Conservancy of Virginia since 2016 and previously served on the board of the Maryland DC chapter from 2008 to 2016. Additionally, Cab's contributions extend to the Yale Real Estate board, where he has been an esteemed member since 2017.
With his recent appointment to Blue Ridge Wildlife Center's Board of Directors, Cab continues to leave an indelible mark on the realms of business and environmental stewardship.
BRWC Board Director
Cab Grayson
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2023 - Present
Dr. Lacher is the owner of Seven Bends Nursery LLC, a native plant nursery focusing on sustainable horticulture and ecosystem based landscaping.
An advocate of native plants for nearly twenty years, Dr. Lacher brings knowledge and experience that comes from degrees in Botany, Environmental Science and Management, and Ecology to Seven Bends Nursery and its customers.
She is established in conservation and planning circles in this region through her research at the Smithsonian Institute, where she worked to connect her science to policy in order to help achieve sustainability goals.
BRWC Board Director
Iara Lacher, PhD
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2023 - Present
Heidi Lesinski migrated from the Midwest and enjoyed a long career in hospital based rehabilitation after obtaining an MA in Occupational Therapy at Shenandoah University. That physically demanding journey was interrupted by injury so she adapted and is now as a Realtor. Her flexible work schedule allows for time to enjoy international travel, national park exploration and long walks in the woods around her home with her husband, John, and their 2 dogs.
Heidi has been an active board member and/or community liaison with Lift Me Up!, a therapeutic riding program; with Kid Pan Alley, a dynamic organization inspiring creativity and confidence in children through group songwriting; and with several nonprofits focused on aging in place, and women’s safety and empowerment.
Heidi and John have fostered several dogs for GRREAT (Golden Retriever Rescue), raised 5 puppies for Canine Companions for Independence and Veterans Moving Forward, and have hosted more than 40 students from Heidi’s home town in Kansas for a weeklong DC educational experience.
BRWC Board Director
Heidi Lesinski
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2023 - Present
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.
BRWC Board Director
Franny Kansteiner
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2024 - Present
Emily Ristau joined Blue Ridge Wildlife Center's Board of Directors in June 2023.
As a licensed attorney in California since 1983, Emily brings her wealth of legal expertise to the board. Having relocated to The Plains, VA, from California in 1998, Emily's commitment to conservation extends to her own farm, protected by a Virginia Outdoors Foundation scenic easement. In her free time, she enjoys horseback riding and renovating houses, currently tackling her fourth major restoration project.
Emily's active involvement in organizations such as The Orange County Hounds, the Piedmont Environmental Council, and her accolades in the Greater Piedmont Realtors underscore her dedication to our mission and her significant contributions to our board.
BRWC Board Director
Emily Ristau
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2023 - Present
Pat is a retired attorney who has lived at Chapel Springs in Clarke County for the past 11 years.
She was Of Counsel at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz in New York City for 11 years in the firm’s financial institutions practice prior to retiring. Before joining that firm, she was an Assistant General Counsel at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, D.C., where she worked for 17 years. She previously was an Associate at Sidley & Austin in the firm’s financial institutions practice in Washington and, before attending law school, a secondary education teacher in Texas. Pat received her J.D. degree from Georgetown University Law School and her B.S. degree from Texas Tech University.
Pat has had a lifelong love of animals and a keen interest in preserving rural landscapes. She shares Chapel Springs with three border collies, five cats and numerous wild deer, foxes, raccoons, opossums, groundhogs, turtles and squirrels, as well as Canada geese, herons, owls and many other bird species. Her 18 acres, including a 2.5-acre spring fed pond, are in conservation easement and provide a nurturing habitat for wildlife throughout the year.
BRWC Board Director
Patricia Robinson
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2023 - Present
Matt Sheedy is President and Founder of MJS Properties Inc., a national real estate development and investment firm. Prior to starting MJS Properties, he was a partner with Trammell Crow Company, the largest commercial development firm in the United States. He is a graduate of the Harvard Business School and Swarthmore College.
Matt has been active in wildlife conservation and environmental issues for over three decades; as an officer of GEOS Foundation which has been instrumental in restructuring and managing anti-poaching operations across eight million acres of national park land in four African countries, a Board Member of the International AntiPoaching Foundation, President and Co-Founder of Virginians for Sensible Energy Policies and as a volunteer and financial supporter of wildlife conservation projects in South Africa, Mozambique, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Costa Rica, Nepal, India and the United States.
He and Vicki Bendure live on a farm they put in conservation easement near Delaplane and both have been active in creating and protecting wildlife habitat.
BRWC Board Director
Matthew Sheedy
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