Staff

Executive Director: Jennifer Kleinbaum
With enthusiastic leadership, Jennifer transitioned TNC through a period of tremendous growth over the past six years and continues to envision ambitious goals for the future. A native of Teaneck, she studied coral reef ecology and herpetology at Cornell University and earned a Masters degree in Educational Technology with Long Island University. Jennifer helped create the education dept. with Cornell Cooperative Extension at Long Island Aquarium and helped run the Roy Hyatt Environmental Center for the Francis M. Weston Audubon Society in  Pensacola, FL. Although an avid traveler, Jennifer loves TNC and is delighted to be raising her daughter Acadia with her husband Ernie in Tenafly.

Director of Education: Debora Davidson
For the past nine years, Debora has dedicated herself to building the education programs at TNC. She also serves on the advisory council of the Alliance. of NJ Environmental Educators and helps lead the Nature Program Cooperative in Bergen County. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Debora graduated with a degree in Environmental studies from the University of  Oregon.  Debora has also worked with the Queens College's Center for Environmental Teaching and Research, and the NJ Audubon Society. “I feel that the most important thing I can do to make a positive impact to the natural world is to help people make meaningful connections between people and their local environment.”

Development Manager: Lesley Whyard
While many members talk with her when renewing their membership, Lesley helps manage the TNC's annual events, including the Annual Dinner, Portraits by the Pond and the Art Competition. Lesley holds an Associates degree in Theatre/Acting from  Bergen   Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Communication from Ramapo College. She previously, worked with the Village School in Waldwick and at HBO in NYC. Lesley and her husband Jason have taken countless trips to zoos and aquariums over the years, and now enjoy sharing their love of animals and nature with their daughter Elizabeth.

Director of Special Projects: Ellen Kuhn As a lifelong Tenafly resident, Ellen has supported the Nature Center’s mission as a member, volunteer, and trustee. Welcome back Ellen!

Scout Coordinator and Buildings & Grounds: Amanda Schuster
Having joined the Nature Center staff in 2004, Amanda has taught countless environmental education programs over the years. As Scout Coordinator, she also manages all of the Girl and Boy Scout programs. Amanda also oversees the management of the trails and facilities at TNC. She studied biology at James Madison University, and comes from a family of educators. In Amanda's spare time she likes to hike, camp, and geo-cache with her husband, AJ.



Communications Assistant and Environmental Educator: Timothy Palla
Tim's energy and infectious enthusiasm has brightened our Center and programs since he joined our team last spring!  He earned his Bachelor's degree in Ecology and Natural Resources from Rutgers University, and his Associates Degree in Biology from County College of Morris. He has a certification in wetland delineation from the Swamp School and received Watershed Management training from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. He is a former Americorps Intern for the NJ School of Conservation, and he has also worked with the NJ Community Water Watch as stream monitor coordinator. In his free time, he enjoys playing drums.

Environmental Educator: Christina Holstrom
Chris combines her extensive background in wildlife, science, and education with a sense of fun to provide vibrant programs for children of all ages. Chris earned a Master's degree in Wildlife Management from Rutgers University and a Bachelor's in Biology from Mary Baldwin College. She is a former consultant for the NJ Audubon Society and has worked with the NJ Bald Eagle Project, NJ Department of Environmental Protection, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Engaged in her community, she is a substitute teacher for Wyckoff Public Schools, active in her PTO, and has been a Cub Scout Leader and Girl Scout Volunteer. Chris enjoys hiking and traveling with her family in her spare time.

Environmental Educator: Onnolee Jansen
A passion for science and the natural world has driven Onnolee to Bergen County from her roots in urban New York. As a certified science teacher in NJ, she loves sharing her knowledge with others. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Biology from William Paterson University and earned her teaching certification from Kean University. Working for Student Conservation Association as a Crew Leader, she taught trail conservation and environmental stewardship. She is also a former Americorps Intern for Essex County Environmental Center. In her spare time, she volunteers for Alpha Phi Omega as a Community Service Coordinator.

Environmental Educator: Kathleen Farley
Kathleen is thrilled to have joined TNC and to be working outdoors with kids! Previously, she spent six years working as a middle school science teacher in Newark where she emphasized environmental connections through the curriculum.  Kathleen graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelors of Science in Ecology and Natural Resource Management and is completing a Masters in Biology from Montclair State University. Her current research involves the breeding population decline of American Kestrels in NJ.  Her previous research included mating behaviors of wild horses (Outer Banks) and nest depredation of the Band-tailed Pigeon (Arizona).  In what spare time she has, Kathleen enjoys hiking, camping, dancing, and of course, birding.

Summer Camp Educator: Elijah Kruger

Elijah is very excited to return for his second year as a Summer Camp Educator--last year he and the campers had so much fun together! During the school year, he works with the New York State Parks, where, as an Outdoor Educator, he teaches environmental education to school children of all ages. Elijah has a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Management from Ithaca College and years of experience working with children in various camp environments.  His passion for sharing his love of nature with others, coupled with his background in recreation, makes him a great addition to our summer camp staff.

Bookkeeper: Marilyn Ivory
With more than 20 years of experience, Marilyn has been meticulously keeping our records in working order as an external consultant for five years.

Upcoming events

Friday, May 24, 2013 7:00 PM • TNC Visitor Center
Saturday, May 25, 2013 12:00 PM • Tenafly Nature Center
Sunday, May 26, 2013 9:00 AM • Tenafly Nature Center

 
 

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