Board of Directors

Jim Charest, BS
Chair
Jim worked in the Aerospace Industry for 40 years in progressive leadership and engineering positions, primarily in Facility Management and has traveled extensively worldwide in this role until he retired in 2013. His Bachelor’s Degree is in Electrical Engineering. In addition to the many hats he wears as a volunteer at Red Rock State Park, Jim is a Case Worker for the Society of St. Vincent De Paul. He is a volunteer teacher in the School Connections Program and a naturalist hike leader at the Park.

Allyson Homes, BA
Co-Chair
Allyson retired following many years as an educator in various learning applications. She is currently a Commissioner with the City of Sedona Historical Preservation Commission and serves on the Coconino County Resource Advisory Committee, US Department of Agriculture. Allyson has a deep commitment to education in the outdoors and its vital role in forming well rounded scientifically minded students. She is a volunteer teacher in the School Connections Program.

Gloria Woody
Secretary
Gloria worked full-time in the medical field for many years. She served on the Boards for the Assistance League of Phoenix, and the Sedona Women and Friends of the Library. Gloria volunteered at the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center, and the International Film Festival. She is a volunteer teacher in the School Connections Program.

Janice "Jan" Taylor, MA
Treasurer
In addition to an MA in Psychology, Jan completed extensive additional course work in the areas of education and administration. She worked with the Los Angeles County Office of Education as a school psychologist and administrator for 33 years. Jan is a volunteer naturalist hike leader at the Park.

Scott Springett
Volunteer Liaison
Scott is retired from the City of San Diego where he dedicated his career to public service as a Fire Fighter and EMT. He joined the Benefactors in 2015, with a love for nature and commitment to environmental education. Scott is a volunteer naturalist hike leader at the Park.

Connie McQuade, MLS
Grants Coordinator
Connie is an entrepreneur following retirement from two careers as a real estate broker and as an EMT. Connie is a published book author. Her Master' Degree is in Legal Studies and she holds certificates in leadership and management. Connie is passionate about outdoor learning and environmental education for school children. She is a volunteer naturalist hike leader at the Park.

Fritz DeBo, MEd
Fritz is retired from his long career in education both as a classroom teacher and as an administrator. In addition to his Master's Degree in Education, Fritz completed a certificate in Administration. He enjoys working with the students, seeing their eyes light up, and hearing their excitement in learning new ideas. Fritz is a volunteer teacher in the School Connections Program and a naturalist hike leader at the Park, and also volunteers with the Sedona International Film Festival, Verde Valley Archeology Center, Toy’s for Tot’s, Slide Rock State Park, and Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Miilie Leenhouts
Millie was Vice-Chair of the community group who wrote the 1992 Red Rock – Dry Creek Community Plan that was adopted by Yavapai County. During the 1980's she served on the Board of the Sedona Arts Center and is presently an Advisory Board member. Millie continues to serve on multiple Boards in the local region.

Dick Ellis
Dick owned and operated an agricultural enterprise for 40 years, specializing in various types of livestock, corn, and soybeans. Following his relocation to Sedona in 1992, he became involved in local water and land use, and was appointed to the Sedona Planning and Zoning Commission. He was later elected to the City Council, followed by his tenure as Mayor where he served until 2006.

Jackie Powers
Jackie won writing awards for screenplays and advertising copyrighting. She worked as a book editor for the past 12 years, and published fiction and poetry. She danced with the Robert Joffrey Ballet Company and later, performed in movies and television. Prior to her relocation to Arizona, Jackie was an active member of the Ventura Arts Council for 5 years.

Angela LeFevre, BS
Angela’s Bachelor’s Degree in Economics focused on International Relations. She has actively worked as a Supervisor in the Yavapai County Juvenile Probation program, and volunteers for the Arizona Kids Saves Program. Her activism includes several local agencies focused on natural resource protection. Angela was on the Board of Keep Sedona Beautiful, and in 2014 was elected to the Sedona City Council.