Governance

I have spent a career in the technology industry working in diverse fields such as aerospace, climate research, medical, and electronics. The work that touched my heart deeply has always been my time spent in climate research at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

One way of positively impacting our climate is to teach the next generation about conservation of our precious resources on this planet so children can develop an appreciation of how wildlife and conservation affects us all. I have the honor and privilege to serve on the board to support the Foundation's mission.

I am a Professor of Pediatrics with UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital and a Neonatal specialist. I've maintained a passion for the outdoors and wildlife throughout my life, and enjoy scuba diving, rock-climbing, sailing, and videography.

I am grateful for the opportunity to combine my career dedication to children with my passions for education, wildlife, and the outdoors to ultimately enrich children's lives. I believe our investment of time, energy, and resources serves as the testament of our hope for the future.

Sonoma Savanna Youth Foundation shepherds that hope by fostering the sacred bond between man, the environment, and wildlife through its programs for children. By means of exposure, education, and moments of pure awe, the Foundation builds upon the eternal interconnectedness of man to the animal kingdom, and in doing so, protects not just our environment and wildlife, but the future of our children as well.

I have been drawn to nature and wildlife since my childhood, and it remains an incredibly important aspect of my life to this day. My wife and I recently moved to Calistoga and as part of our new community have become more familiar with the Sonoma Savanna Youth Foundation. We were both drawn for its wildlife preservation efforts and educational programs.

The Sonoma Savanna Youth Foundation leverages the wonders of nature and designs programs that bring light to children who would otherwise be unable to visit the park themselves, which I feel is incredibly meaningful. I feel honored to be a part of an organization that can provide this type of life-changing experience to kids who would otherwise not have access to it, and continue to be personally drawn to the animals and education programs which focus on preservation and protection.

“Building an army of advocates to conserve the wonders of wildlife and nature's environment.”

My passion is helping children gain exposure to a world beyond their classroom.

I have been a nature and science lover since childhood, when I was an avid collector of creatures and specimens that filled cages, terrariums and display cases. During my career as a teacher, I taught general education and served as a science resource teacher, director of technology and school principal.

Since retiring I have traveled around the world, and to East Africa three times, where my wife and I support a Bush School program for youth in Kenya. I have also served on the boards of three Sonoma County non-profit organizations. I am excited to join the Sonoma Savanna Youth Foundation Board of Directors as the organization seeks to expand its impact in Sonoma County and beyond.