FOUNDER

John is a long-time outdoor enthusiast and wildlife advocate. He has a BS/MS in Industrial Engineering, is a certified Tennessee Naturalist, and is a federally licensed bird bander involved in bird research projects with local parks and nature sanctuaries. His passion is birds!

FOUNDER

Jonathan has a BS in geology and soil science and an MS in plant, soil, and environmental sciences. He has a lifelong interest in ecology. His work experience includes federal agencies (USDA-NRCS, USGS), environmental consulting and reclamation, self-employment as an ISA certified arborist, professional soil science, greenhouse design, and nursery management.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Melinda is a writer, educator, and Tennessee Naturalist with an MS in English. She is passionate about biodiversity conservation with a particular emphasis on local ecology, and loves exploring and advancing the stewardship of Tennessee’s trove of native plants, birds, and other wildlife. Favorite native TN bird: Pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus).

Volunteer

Kay Matthews has 40 plus years of experience in environmental education, teaching children and adults about the importance of native plants and animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. In recent years, her focus has been on educating her community about the importance of restoring native habitat. She serves on the Creation Care team of her church, which is dedicated to removing invasive species and restoring native biodiversity to their extensive green space.

Volunteer

Nature is Robin’s solace. She is happiest when she is outside digging her toes in the earth, or listening to a bird’s melodic voice, or planting something native to sustain all forms of life in her yard. She feels very fortunate to be a part of The Habitat Connection. Their values and mission align beautifully.

"Be that change you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi

Volunteer

Aprele is a certified Tennessee naturalist with a B.S. in Biology and a Master's in Teaching. She is fascinated with native plants and animals and passionate about restoring their habitat. She loves to educate others in her community, both kids and kids-at-heart, especially those who have had little experience with or exposure to nature.

"In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught." - Baba Dioum

Volunteer

Tonya is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Memphis with a Bachelor of Science Degree. She earned her Lawrence County Master Gardener certificate in 2001 and is currently serving as a Master Gardener in Williamson County. Her love for nature and involvement with The Habitat Connection sparked her passion to learn more about native plants and the vital role they play in our ecosystem.  When she is not volunteering for The Habitat Connection, Williamson County Master Gardeners, or Young Men's Service League with her son, she can be found working in her yard, spending time with her family or buying more native plants at Wonder Gifts and Gardens and Growild.  She also enjoys hiking, birding, native bee keeping, and visiting State/National Parks.

Grant Writer

Karen is passionate about helping nonprofits tell their stories and find funding opportunities. She loves the outdoors and roaming around Nashville’s beautiful parks. When she’s not writing grants, you’ll find her walking her terrier, Hugo, or working in her garden.