Meet the Team Behind Triangle Land Conservancy
The TLC Team is a diverse group of professionals all committed to advancing land conservation in the Triangle.
Senior Leadership
Ayanna Smith
Bo Howes
Christine Wilson
Leigh Ann Hammerbacher
Matt Rutledge
Sandy Sweitzer
Olivia Bowler
Land Protection
The Land Protection team works to permanently protect land across Chatham, Durham, Johnston, Lee, Orange, and Wake counties. Based on regional conservation plans and priorities, staff collaborate with landowners and community stakeholders to conserve land through conservation easements and/or acquisitions that will support the Triangle’s drinking water, habitats, farmland and places to connect with nature.
Brenna Thompson
Emma Childs
Kierra Hyman
Lily Hutchens
Margaret Sands
Melissa Clunan
Land Management
The Land Management team cares for protected lands in perpetuity – maintaining owned properties like TLC’s nature preserves. Working with dedicated volunteers, this team restores ecosystems, manages habitats, and sustains safe trails for the community.
Heather Szaro
Nick Adams
Luke Whiteside
Patrick Boleman
Umar Muhammad
Natural Resources
Natural resources staff are responsible for easement monitoring -- annual visits to TLC conservation easements to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreement. They uphold the conservation values of the property by documenting site conditions, identifying any potential violations or changes in land use, and working with landowners to address any issues. They also coordinate use of our owned properties for academic and scientific research.
Chris Leonard
Hannah Royal
Philanthropy & Grants
The Philanthropy & Grants team ensures TLC has the resources to protect the land we love in the Triangle and support programs that connect people to nature. Through strong relationships with donors, partners, and the community, they secure grants, steward contributions, and sustain the funding vital to our mission.
Laura Warman
Sandra Rodriguez
Sarah Gueli
Sonya Spruill
Education & Outreach
The Education & Outreach team connects the Triangle community with nature through free guided hikes, programs, and field trips. Working with volunteers, schools, local nonprofits, and partner organizations, they provide opportunities for everyone to build an understanding and love for nature in our region.
Amaya Horner
Hanna Camptella
Kayla Ebert
Meera Butalia
Communications
The Communications team shares the story of TLC’s work through digital, print, and in-person channels. They manage the website, social media, newsletters, and press outreach to engage the public, promote events, and inspire support for local land conservation.
Florencia Loncán
Olivia Garcia
Finance & Administration
The Finance & Administration team oversees the organization’s budget, accounting, human resources, and day-to-day operations. By ensuring sound financial management and efficient administrative systems, the team keeps TLC running smoothly, responsibly, and in compliance with regulations. Their work supports every department, enabling the organization to focus on advancing its mission.
Amber Crispell
Callie Hart
Jacob Ahlum Hanson
Tanya Dianto
Board of Directors
Bert Fisher
Lysandra Weber
Rebecca Balter
Lawson Carmichael
Anupama Joshi
Jenny Bo
Seth Fox
Paige Jackson
Tandy Jones
Dr. Zakiya Leggett
Patrick Mateer
John W. Narron
Michelle Nowlin
Cindy Pacchiana
Will Perreault
Jackie Leach Pierce
Jimmy Randolph