As Executive Director, Stephanie is a leader in the world of science museums. She played the lead role in the creation of the Center’s exhibits and programs, including interior live exhibits and multimedia presentations. She was also responsible for the development of Wild Walk and creation of the Adirondack Climate Action Plan.
As The Wild Center’s Deputy Director, Hillarie brings a wealth of experience in non-profit management and capacity building. She is responsible for much of the daily operation of the Center as well as membership, development, and overseeing the programs, marketing and customer service teams.
As Director of Finance & Administration, Bob is responsible for all of the financial operations of The Wild Center, including The Wild Supply Co. and Waterside Café. As a Certified Public Accountant and partner at Mahoney, Cohen & Company, P.C., Bob brings years of experience in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors.
Jen Kretser (she/her) is the Director of Climate Initiatives for The Wild Center – a science center in the Adirondack Park in northern New York State. Jen manages The Wild Center’s climate change engagement programs including the global Youth Climate Program which was highlighted by the Obama White House Office of Science and Technology; interpretive programs for visitors; green building education & design; and other climate related initiatives/partnerships. She is working to help catalyze youth climate summits around the world. In November 2021, Jen led the Wild Center Youth Delegation and the US Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Delegation at the UN COP 26 in Glasgow. Jen is on the coordinating team of the U.S. Action for Climate Empowerment – working to build a network of climate change education, public engagement and training across the country. In addition, she is a founding member of the NY Climate Resilience and Education Task Force which elevates climate change education and action in NY Public Schools; and the national Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network Board. As a senior staff member at the Wild Center Jen works on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives including a long-standing partnership with the Haudenosaunee. She also serves on the Adirondack Diversity Initiative core team, Adirondack Mountain Club Board and on the North Country Clean Energy Hub Advisory Committee. Jen has over 30 years experience working in the non-profit sector supporting educators and youth in and out of schools. She has worked with the Adirondack Mountain Club, Zoo New England, Jane Goodall Institute, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, Cincinnati Zoo and Paul Smith’s College. Jen is a graduate from Cornell University in Wildlife Ecology & Antioch University in M.S. Environmental Science & Education. When not working, Jen can be found outside hiking, paddling, xc skiing and picking blueberries with her family and friends.
As Facilities Director, Phil manages facilities operations of our 115-acre campus and leads efforts to reduce the Center's carbon footprint and implement sustainable building practices throughout all aspects of our operations.
Leah is responsible for the living collection of native Adirondack animals at The Wild Center. As a New York State licensed falconer, Leah trains falcons to hunt and survive so they may be released and thrive in their native habitat.
Kerri provides vision and planning for the Center’s programs which are designed for visitors of all ages and experiences. She also provides oversight of Visual Thinking Strategies, an educational program which leverages discussion and inquiry to deepen curiosity and learning skills.
As Marketing Director, Nick brings over 10 years of non-profit experience. He plans and executes the Center’s award-winning marketing, communications and public relations programs.