The Faces of The Nature Foundation
Elizabeth Long
Executive Director
Elizabeth Long brings a wealth of experience to the role, with a distinguished 15-year career in conservation, education, program development, and research. A native of Roanoke, Virginia, she holds degrees in Biology from the University of Richmond and The College of William & Mary, and a Ph.D. in Ecology from UC Davis in California. Her career includes leadership experience with non-profit organizations, combining a solid foundation of conservation management in both education and research. Recently serving as senior program coordinator for the Geological Society of America, an international scientific organization of 17,000 members, she led the planning, promotion and fund-raising for innovative national professional development programs, through building strategic partnerships with universities, government agencies, and community organizations. Prior to her work at GSA, she served as Director of Conservation Science at the 8,000-acre Mohonk Preserve in New Paltz, NY, where she directed research partnerships and expanded educational programs for local schools.
Contact information: executive.director@tnfw.org
Tessa Sarvay
Special Events Coordinator
Hello friends,
Although I am new to the Wintergreen area, Virginia has long been my home. My life has been shaped by a deep connection to Virginia’s Blue Ridge landscapes and communities. I raised my two daughters between Charlottesville—where I attended UVA—and Augusta County. I most recently owned an organic flower farm, an experience that strengthened my appreciation for seasonal rhythms and hands-on work.
Nelson County reminds me of my hometown of Floyd and keeps me closely connected to the outdoors. I enjoy gardening, swimming, hiking, and exploring our mountains in search of mushrooms and native medicinal plants. I also enjoy visiting the beach and snorkeling.
At home, I value quality time with my partner and my sweet Sheltie, Charlotte.’
Josh Palumbo
Forest Manager
I grew up outside Annapolis Maryland fishing the tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay and wandering the woods behind my house. I attended Virginia Tech (go Hokies!) and received a degree in Forest Resource Management. After spending a few years in the wilds of the Adirondacks, I came to The Nature Foundation as the Forest Management Coordinator. When I am not busy shuttling one of my four children to various activities, I can be found canoeing a lovely Virginia river, traipsing through the woods, coaching high school wrestling or on a date with my lovely wife.
Contact information: forestmanage@tnfw.org
Kathie Driscoll
Education Director`
Hi there! I’m Kathie, the Education Director at The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen. I hail from Northern Virginia and have made my home in Central Virginia; beautiful Amherst specifically. I have provided environmental education in the Central Virginia area for over 20 years. I am passionate about conservation and instilling the appreciation of Virginia’s beautiful and unique resources.
I have a background in Biology and German; earning two Bachelor degrees from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. I am a member of the North American Association for Environmental Education and the Central Blue Ridge Master Naturalist Chapter.
As the Education Director for TNFW, I provide environmental education and cultural history for the Nelson County community and to surrounding counties. I love Wintergreen for its near perfect beauty and the fellowship of the Wintergreen community. I thoroughly enjoy offering programs, activities and “road trips” for our members. I oversee TNFW’s volunteer program where I recruit volunteers to help develop and deliver environmental education and natural resource training. I especially appreciate each and every volunteer who has made this position the best I ever had.
I spend my free time in the woods hiking, birding and staying in tune with nature. I have two beautiful daughters, who share my value in caring for our natural world.
Contact information: youth@tnfw.org
Camille VanHout
Bookkeeper
Hi All! I grew up in Nelson County with four brothers enjoying all that a rural environment has to offer. All five of us settled here & raised our families as many changes took place all around the County. After completing a Masters of Education in Counseling, I pursued a career in Human Resources while raising three children. As I moved to part-time work and grandparenting, I found I enjoyed Bookkeeping and was fortunate to find a great fit with The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen. I can’t say I have much spare time as I tend to fill my hours visiting with friends & family & planning for the next adventure. So much to see & do and never enough hours in the day!
Linda Ehinger
Newsletter Editor and Website Assistant
I’ve visited friends at Wintergreen for years and upon retirement in 2015 I found the perfect little home on the mountain. My life has taken me from growing up in Los Angeles, college in Michigan, and finally to Maryland near DC. I didn’t know how this city girl would do in such a rural, quiet setting. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. My two adult daughters, my son-in-law, and grandson love visiting me. They are huge fans of our beautiful mountain. In my spare time I pursue (way too many) crafty and artsy projects along with reading and socializing with the wonderful friends I’ve made here at Wintergreen.
Jessica Garcia Fox
Membership/Shop Manager
Hello! My name is Jessica Garcia Fox and I’m the Shop Manager. I grew up surrounded by wildlife and outdoor adventures in Southern California. Later in my life, I moved to Virginia, where I fell in love with the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I attended James Madison University and chose to stay in the Shenandoah Valley because of its strong sense of community and natural beauty. I’m passionate about supporting local nonprofits and giving back through community involvement. My husband and I also own a nature-inspired gift shop in Downtown Staunton that reflects our shared love of the outdoors. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support The Nature Foundation’s mission and help protect the landscapes and wildlife that make this region so extraordinary.