Our Team
Aryn Swann
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Aryn grew up in rural Wisconsin being taught to appreciate nature. Since then she has dedicated her life to protecting the environment. From teaching environmental education to working hands on with farmers in sustainable ag and renewable energy production she strives to leave the world a greener place. Outside of work Aryn spends her free time coaching a national baton twirling team, tackling home renovation projects, or snuggling with her cats. Aryn has a BS in Environmental Science and an MS in Environmental Conservation.
Ashley Jacobson
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Growing up in Wisconsin, Ashley spent many summers exploring the outdoors and camping with her family. These fond family memories sparked an intrigue in nature and the environment. Ashley graduated from UW Madison in May of 2024 achieving a BS in Graphic Design. Ashley loves crafting and designing in her free time through a number of different mediums including painting, sculpture, and prop design for her childhood baton studio.
Faye Darga
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Bio
Board of Directors
President
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Steve’s career in ecology spans over four decades, with a primary focus on ecological restoration and soil carbon research. He earned his MS Degree in Ecological and Biological Sciences from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and has been a scientist in hundreds of field ecological projects and data analysis projects across North American. Steve's extensive body of work includes technical studies, reports, and restoration initiatives. He's also a sought-after speaker and author, with books like "Restoring Ecological Health to Your Land" and "Nature's Second Chance" receiving critical acclaim.
Treasurer
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LeAnn was born and raised in Northern Illinois and comes from a grain farm family. She graduated from Columbia College with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and Business Administration. LeAnn started in the banking industry for over 10 years and now has an accounting and tax business. Outside of work, LeAnn is spending time with her husband and two boys either outside or on the sports fields.
Secretary
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Susan grew up in the rural Midwest, following a path from her native Iowa to the forests and prairies of Wisconsin. Her passion for the natural world and our human connection inspired a career in botany and ecology. As a consultant with Applied Ecological Services for nearly 30 years, she and beloved colleagues worked to restore damaged ecosystems around the world. Susan holds a B.A in Applied Arts from Iowa State University and a B.S. in Botany from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Susan devotes time to not-for-profit conservation organizations, along with other volunteers, dedicated to conservation and protection of land and water, and to inspiring the next generation of botanists and ecologists.
Board Member
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Grace was born in the Philippines and adopted by an American engineer, who inspired her to pursue a career in engineering and design. Grace’s engineering background, and her experience raising a child with multiple disabilities, have had a profound impact on her personal guiding principles and the way she approaches challenges. Grace’s mission is to create an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, is included. Her vision is to leave a legacy which illustrates that everyone has a purpose, and her values are to foster love and respect for all through education and experiences. Grace earned an Associates Degree in Applied Science and Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh County Community College.
Zack Kooi
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Zack grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. After getting his associates degree in mechanical design, he moved to Wisconsin and took a job designing control buildings for the renewable energy industry. Wisconsin life has been great on Zack. It has helped to grow and fuel his passion for horticulture and regenerate farming. Any free second he has is spent working on his house plant collection, home garden, and hydroponics. He enjoys studying about different gardening practices and applying what he learns.
Vice President
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Bio
Board Member
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One of SWLC’s founding members, Meredith grew up in North Carolina. It was her PhD in Pharmaceutical Organic Pharmacy from UW-Madison that would bring her to call Southern Wisconsin home. Throughout her career, Meredith held various roles, from pharmacist to research scientist, and even found time to raise two kids. Her retirement ushered in a new chapter of exploration, where she and her husband discovered the joys of travel and conservation. Her impact extends far beyond her personal adventures. As a dedicated member of the SWLC, she played a pivotal role in the creation of Three Waters Reserve, a testament to her passion for preserving the environment and fostering a legacy of education and inspiration for future generations.
Board Member
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Bio
Board Member
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Lea grew up running around barefoot on a family farm in northern Illinois. When she moved to Madison for school, she thought for sure she wanted to be an engineer and get out of the country. She quickly found out that nothing matters more to her than the environment! Ultimately she graduated with a degree in Botany and a certificate in Environmental Science from UW-Madison where her appreciation for natural spaces grew. Her experience with farmers coupled with her love of the outdoors drives her to find ways to preserve undeveloped land and aid landowners who aim to improve their own stewardship. She loves traveling, hiking, and learning new things whenever she finds time.
