Susan TrautmanChief Executive OfficerSusan, our fearless leader, has literally been building parks since childhood. Her credentials and past positions are plentiful, she is active with MPRA and NRPA, and loves to take hiking trips. Click the globe below for her full bio.
Ext. 101
Michelle Bock (she/her)Chief Operating OfficerMichelle oversees the operations of our build, promote and sustain teams. She's an avid runner and overall exercise enthusiast and enjoys listening to Doctor Radio. Dessert is her favorite meal and she's always got a song in her head. On weekends, she loves to enjoy the outdoors, read and spend time with her family (including her dog).
Ext. 116Todd Antoine (he/him)Chief of Planning & ProjectsTodd has been instrumental to the organization since the very early years. He loves the Whitaker Concert Series at the Missouri Botanical Garden and anything with blueberries.
Ext. 103Michael CarsonDirector of Finance & AdministrationMike leads our finance team. His experience in finance, construction and non-profit accounting helps him safeguard our assets and protect your investment in the greenways. He's an avid runner--typically on Grant’s Trail in the Gravois Greenway. He also smokes a mean brisket!
Ext. 122Shaughnessy DanielsDirector of Civic EngagementShaughnessy engages people, neighborhoods, and partners across the region so everyone has a voice in our projects. A daily walk--rain or shine--is at the top of her to do list. Don't be surprised if you see her on a greenway near you!
Ext. 127Ben Grossman (he/him)Director of Greenway OperationsBen takes care of the greenways, putting his know-how and team to work to ensure an excellent experience for greenway visitors. There's no place he'd rather be than outside-whether he's coaching his daughters' sports teams, out in the woods, or spending time on the lake with his family.
Ext. 120Emma KIues (she/her)Vice President of Communications & OutreachEmma's background with nonprofit organizations, a summer camp and a marketing agency help her lead Team Promote, communicating updates and encouraging people to live life outside. She's a big fan of exploring, volunteering and eating her way around the St. Louis region!
Ext. 119T. Christopher PeoplesEquity + Economic Impact DirectorChris brings his professional expertise as an engineer and land surveyor, along with his interest in sustainable infrastructure, to plan and build greenways that bridge neighborhoods and connect communities. He loves all things sports and you can count on him to point you in the direction of the best & closest rooftop dining spots across the St. Louis region. On weekends, you’ll find him outside having fun with his family and friends.
Ext. 145Valerie Rudy-ValliVice President Major GiftsValerie Rudy-Valli is leading the effort to secure the funds needed to bring the bold vision of the Brickline Greenway to life! She is a proud resident of "The Hill." When she’s not eating or dreaming of her next meal, she loves to explore the greenways with her husband and beloved Miniature Schnauzer Betsy Ross!
Ext. 108Dallas Adams (she/her)Communications ManagerDallas helps spread the word about all things Great Rivers Greenway. She is passionate about building strong, welcoming communities. When she’s not working, you can find her in the garden with her adventurous daughter.
Ext. 143Beth BehrnsFinance and Administration ManagerBeth takes care of the day-to-day activities of finance and administration. She is meticulous in her bookkeeping, but a pushover when it comes to her three beloved dogs! They all enjoy walks along the Gravois Greenway.
Ext. 105Barbara BernthalExecutive AssistantBarb keeps us all on track as the "chaos coordinator." She is continuously improving our systems and processes to ensure transparent and efficient monthly board meetings. Fueled by caffeine, Barb's can-do attitude helps us meet any challenge that pops up in the office or out on the greenways!
Ext. 118Bryn BlackburnConservation CoordinatorBryn supports conservation efforts by assisting with habitat restoration and invasive species removal projects and coordinating volunteer workdays. On weekends, you'll find her outside with her dog; hiking, canoeing, and foraging for edible plants. She doesn’t have a favorite greenway yet but plans to explore all 135 + miles to find it!
Ext. 152Yvette BlyOperations SupervisorYvette Bly supervises operations in the downtown St. Louis area; primarily Kiener Plaza, Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd and Katherine Ward Burg Garden. Her free time is spent mostly outside- running, hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. Fee Fee is her home greenway!Lonny BoringSenior Project ManagerLonny has managed many of our major projects over the years including the transformation of the Arch Grounds. Right now he is focused on all things Brickline Greenway. His depth of knowledge, calm demeanor and attention to detail is valued by our team and partners alike.
Ext. 106Kuleya BruceProject ManagerKuleya is a project manager on the team tasked with bringing to life both the Brickline Greenway and the greenway on the Hodiamont Tracks! On weekends you can find her quenching her inquisitive nature whether that be a museum, finding a random festival, tearing apart an engine or enhancing her board game strategies with friends.Tiffany ClintonAdministrative AssistantTiffany keeps the daily flow of people moving efficiently through our office. She's also an enthusiastic cheerleader for the greenways! On the weekends, you'll find her in the kitchen or exploring St. Louis with her family and her son.
Ext. 100Gabby DanbackCivic Engagement ManagerGabby makes sure everyone's voices are heard on greenway projects. In her free time, she's usually exploring new and favorite places outside with her dog Peach. She's known among family & friends for her thrifting finds and is handy at all things DIY. No “home” greenway for her… yet!
Ext. 155Marla Guggenheimer McDonnell (she/her)Civic Engagement ManagerMarla ensures our greenway projects integrate and uplift community voice and vision. Outside of work, she enjoys walks with her dog, eating ice cream with her husband, and exploring all the St. Louis region has to offer. She is a certified Master Gardener and loves growing plants and being outdoors! Marla believes every greenway has something special to offer and wants to know how you connect with the greenways you love.
Ext. 168Angelica Gutierrez (ella/she/her)Senior Project ManagerAngelica builds greenways and is a go-to resource for managing grants and federal transportation funding that leverage the region’s sales tax investment in greenways. As an industrial engineer, she navigates construction details, permitting, and unexpected challenges with the greatest of ease. Her favorite thing to do on weekends is spend time with her family-outside or on the dance floor with her husband.
Ext. 107Tina HeischmidtAccountantTina helps keep our finances in order. Summer is her favorite season and she loves nothing more than a day outside by the pool with her family and friends. She’s a big Cardinals fan and can still catch and throw a softball with the best of them!
Ext. 132Harry Hensley (he/him)Greenway Operations SupervisorHarry helps take care of the greenways. He loves to dance almost as much as he loves to be outside. If you’re looking for local restaurant reviews and recommendations-he’s your guy. He’s also one of the few people who can start a fire with a bow drill. His home greenway is Gravois: Grant’s Trail.
Ext. 146Danna Hilleren (they/them)Outreach CoordinatorDanna helps spread the word about exploring St. Louis outdoors. Their background is in education, wildlife conservation, and trail organizations. Danna loves every chance to get outside, meet new people, and enjoy nature whether on a skateboard, bike, or leisurely walk. In their free time, they value quality time with loved ones, and can often be found getting creative cooking, writing, or even dabbling in sustainable DIY projects. Home Greenway: the magnificent Meramec Greenway!
Ext. 114Susan JankowskiGreenway Operations ManagerSusan cares for the greenways in St. Louis & St. Charles counties. She's at her best when she's working outside! On weekends, you'll find her in a park or greenway with her family. Her go-to is the River des Peres Greenway.
Rachel JohnsonFund Development ManagerRachel works with the development team to expand the base of support for the greenways. Most of her favorite things (except for cooking) can be enjoyed on a greenway- exercising, listening to podcasts and soaking up the sun! She looks to the Fee Fee Greenway to find peace and quiet.
Ext. 156Anne Milford (she/her)Communications CoordinatorAnne writes it all down, assisting with PR and storytelling, social media and anything else we need! She loves spending time with her family, spoiling her dog and frequenting the Gravois Greenway (Grant's Trail).
Ext. 117Jovany OteroVolunteer CoordinatorJovany oversees our community outreach and supports customer service. On the weekends, you’ll find him taking care of his baby, reading, or playing videogames. He and his wife also like road tripping to state and national parks and during the warmer months, taking their dog Yoda for walks at local parks.
Ext. 111Tagert RowbothamJunior AccountantTagert makes sure our accounts payable and expense processing functions run smoothly. His attention to detail and focus on process improvement serve him well in the kitchen where he enjoys cooking up anything by Ina Garten. He also loves hiking (state & national parks) and board games.
Ext. 144Tom Schweiss (he/him)Conservation Program ManagerTom helps take care of the greenways, whether it's planning for new habitat or a conservation project with partners. His endless energy and enthusiasm not only make him a great teammate, but also serve him well on his daily runs. He and his wife and kiddos are happiest when they are spending time outside.
Ext. 125Isabel ShireyDevelopment CoordinatorIsabel works with our development team to grow and sustain our community of greenway supporters. On weekends, you'll most likely find her outside: whether it’s walking in her St. Louis neighborhood or camping, hiking and foraging for mushrooms!
Ext. 153Elizabeth Simons (she/her)Community Program ManagerElizabeth engages the community through meaningful experiences such as tours, classes, and conversations on the greenways. She's done it all around here and always with a smile! She loves to talk about nature and culture on long walks throughout the St. Louis region.
Ext. 104Michael Steinlage (he/him)Senior Project ManagerMichael is a world traveler (30 countries & counting!) and self-proclaimed "National Park Nerd.” He brings everything he's seen and learned in parks and cities around the world to plan and build new greenways! Look for him on the Meramec Greenway with his pup, Wilson.
Ext. 109Viet TruongManager of Finance and AdministrationViet helps oversee finance and administration. His energy and attention to detail serve him well both at work and outside the office where he enjoys mountain biking, cooking, travel, gardening, and making YouTube videos.
Ext. 138Dee Van HussOperations SupervisorDee oversees day-to-day operations of the greenways in the southern part of the region. In her free time, she recycles and repurposes furniture and objects in creative ways. She also paddleboards with her dog! Her favorite greenway is the Mississippi Greenway (Riverfront Trail).Mark Vogl (he/him)Senior Project Manager, PlanningAs one of our senior project managers, Mark leads on local greenway planning and is also responsible for updates to our every-five-year regional plan. He enjoys walking his dogs and training for marathons (lots of them!) on greenways across the region.
Ext. 112Vanessa WearDevelopment AssistantVanessa assists the Development Team with all things fundraising. On weekends, she enjoys home improvement projects and searching for "hidden treasures" at antique malls. You also might find her inline skating on the River Des Peres Greenway!
Ext. 140Ryan WilsonOperations CoordinatorRyan supports the maintenance and conservation needs of the greenways. In his free time, he likes to ride bikes and rollerblade around the city with his daughter. Fun Fact: He plays the banjo!Grace Wright (she/her)Senior Project ManagerGrace brings her expertise as an engineer, love for the outdoors and “green thumb” to deliver beautiful and well-built greenway projects across the region. In her spare time, she loves to kayak and spend time with her family exploring state and national parks!
Ext. 141Jeffrey YungProduction SpecialistJeffrey is one of our production specialists, supporting all communications efforts through graphic design. He is working on his Master’s degree in Media Design. Outside of school and work, he loves photography, exercising, and hosting board game get-togethers for family and friends.
Ext.Lisa ChassaingOutreach SpecialistJessica EilermanOutreach SpecialistDave GoldsbyOutreach SpecialistRiz KhanOutreach SpecialistErin NicholsOutreach SpecialistLinda PaunickaOutreach SpecialistAngela SmithOutreach SpecialistPat TovoOutreach SpecialistApril WalkerOutreach SpecialistSheryll WilliamsOutreach Specialist
Susan Trautman
Chief Executive Officer
Susan, our fearless leader, has literally been building parks since childhood. Her credentials and past positions are plentiful, she is active with MPRA and NRPA, and loves to take hiking trips. Click the globe below for her full bio.
Ext. 101
Michelle Bock (she/her)
Chief Operating Officer
Michelle oversees the operations of our build, promote and sustain teams. She's an avid runner and overall exercise enthusiast and enjoys listening to Doctor Radio. Dessert is her favorite meal and she's always got a song in her head. On weekends, she loves to enjoy the outdoors, read and spend time with her family (including her dog).
Ext. 116
Todd Antoine (he/him)
Chief of Planning & Projects
Todd has been instrumental to the organization since the very early years. He loves the Whitaker Concert Series at the Missouri Botanical Garden and anything with blueberries.
Ext. 103
Michael Carson
Director of Finance & Administration
Mike leads our finance team. His experience in finance, construction and non-profit accounting helps him safeguard our assets and protect your investment in the greenways. He's an avid runner--typically on Grant’s Trail in the Gravois Greenway. He also smokes a mean brisket!
Ext. 122
Shaughnessy Daniels
Director of Civic Engagement
Shaughnessy engages people, neighborhoods, and partners across the region so everyone has a voice in our projects. A daily walk--rain or shine--is at the top of her to do list. Don't be surprised if you see her on a greenway near you!
Ext. 127
Ben Grossman (he/him)
Director of Greenway Operations
Ben takes care of the greenways, putting his know-how and team to work to ensure an excellent experience for greenway visitors. There's no place he'd rather be than outside-whether he's coaching his daughters' sports teams, out in the woods, or spending time on the lake with his family.
Ext. 120
Emma KIues (she/her)
Vice President of Communications & Outreach
Emma's background with nonprofit organizations, a summer camp and a marketing agency help her lead Team Promote, communicating updates and encouraging people to live life outside. She's a big fan of exploring, volunteering and eating her way around the St. Louis region!
Ext. 119
T. Christopher Peoples
Equity + Economic Impact Director
Chris brings his professional expertise as an engineer and land surveyor, along with his interest in sustainable infrastructure, to plan and build greenways that bridge neighborhoods and connect communities. He loves all things sports and you can count on him to point you in the direction of the best & closest rooftop dining spots across the St. Louis region. On weekends, you’ll find him outside having fun with his family and friends.
Ext. 145
Valerie Rudy-Valli
Vice President Major Gifts
Valerie Rudy-Valli is leading the effort to secure the funds needed to bring the bold vision of the Brickline Greenway to life! She is a proud resident of "The Hill." When she’s not eating or dreaming of her next meal, she loves to explore the greenways with her husband and beloved Miniature Schnauzer Betsy Ross!
Ext. 108
Dallas Adams (she/her)
Communications Manager
Dallas helps spread the word about all things Great Rivers Greenway. She is passionate about building strong, welcoming communities. When she’s not working, you can find her in the garden with her adventurous daughter.
Ext. 143
Beth Behrns
Finance and Administration Manager
Beth takes care of the day-to-day activities of finance and administration. She is meticulous in her bookkeeping, but a pushover when it comes to her three beloved dogs! They all enjoy walks along the Gravois Greenway.
Ext. 105
Barbara Bernthal
Executive Assistant
Barb keeps us all on track as the "chaos coordinator." She is continuously improving our systems and processes to ensure transparent and efficient monthly board meetings. Fueled by caffeine, Barb's can-do attitude helps us meet any challenge that pops up in the office or out on the greenways!
Ext. 118
Bryn Blackburn
Conservation Coordinator
Bryn supports conservation efforts by assisting with habitat restoration and invasive species removal projects and coordinating volunteer workdays. On weekends, you'll find her outside with her dog; hiking, canoeing, and foraging for edible plants. She doesn’t have a favorite greenway yet but plans to explore all 135 + miles to find it!
Ext. 152
Yvette Bly
Operations Supervisor
Yvette Bly supervises operations in the downtown St. Louis area; primarily Kiener Plaza, Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd and Katherine Ward Burg Garden. Her free time is spent mostly outside- running, hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. Fee Fee is her home greenway!
Lonny Boring
Senior Project Manager
Lonny has managed many of our major projects over the years including the transformation of the Arch Grounds. Right now he is focused on all things Brickline Greenway. His depth of knowledge, calm demeanor and attention to detail is valued by our team and partners alike.
Ext. 106
Kuleya Bruce
Project Manager
Kuleya is a project manager on the team tasked with bringing to life both the Brickline Greenway and the greenway on the Hodiamont Tracks! On weekends you can find her quenching her inquisitive nature whether that be a museum, finding a random festival, tearing apart an engine or enhancing her board game strategies with friends.
Tiffany Clinton
Administrative Assistant
Tiffany keeps the daily flow of people moving efficiently through our office. She's also an enthusiastic cheerleader for the greenways! On the weekends, you'll find her in the kitchen or exploring St. Louis with her family and her son.
Ext. 100
Gabby Danback
Civic Engagement Manager
Gabby makes sure everyone's voices are heard on greenway projects. In her free time, she's usually exploring new and favorite places outside with her dog Peach. She's known among family & friends for her thrifting finds and is handy at all things DIY. No “home” greenway for her… yet!
Ext. 155
Marla Guggenheimer McDonnell (she/her)
Civic Engagement Manager
Marla ensures our greenway projects integrate and uplift community voice and vision. Outside of work, she enjoys walks with her dog, eating ice cream with her husband, and exploring all the St. Louis region has to offer. She is a certified Master Gardener and loves growing plants and being outdoors! Marla believes every greenway has something special to offer and wants to know how you connect with the greenways you love.
Ext. 168
Angelica Gutierrez (ella/she/her)
Senior Project Manager
Angelica builds greenways and is a go-to resource for managing grants and federal transportation funding that leverage the region’s sales tax investment in greenways. As an industrial engineer, she navigates construction details, permitting, and unexpected challenges with the greatest of ease. Her favorite thing to do on weekends is spend time with her family-outside or on the dance floor with her husband.
Ext. 107
Tina Heischmidt
Accountant
Tina helps keep our finances in order. Summer is her favorite season and she loves nothing more than a day outside by the pool with her family and friends. She’s a big Cardinals fan and can still catch and throw a softball with the best of them!
Ext. 132
Harry Hensley (he/him)
Greenway Operations Supervisor
Harry helps take care of the greenways. He loves to dance almost as much as he loves to be outside. If you’re looking for local restaurant reviews and recommendations-he’s your guy. He’s also one of the few people who can start a fire with a bow drill. His home greenway is Gravois: Grant’s Trail.
Ext. 146
Danna Hilleren (they/them)
Outreach Coordinator
Danna helps spread the word about exploring St. Louis outdoors. Their background is in education, wildlife conservation, and trail organizations. Danna loves every chance to get outside, meet new people, and enjoy nature whether on a skateboard, bike, or leisurely walk. In their free time, they value quality time with loved ones, and can often be found getting creative cooking, writing, or even dabbling in sustainable DIY projects. Home Greenway: the magnificent Meramec Greenway!
Ext. 114
Susan Jankowski
Greenway Operations Manager
Susan cares for the greenways in St. Louis & St. Charles counties. She's at her best when she's working outside! On weekends, you'll find her in a park or greenway with her family. Her go-to is the River des Peres Greenway.
Rachel Johnson
Fund Development Manager
Rachel works with the development team to expand the base of support for the greenways. Most of her favorite things (except for cooking) can be enjoyed on a greenway- exercising, listening to podcasts and soaking up the sun! She looks to the Fee Fee Greenway to find peace and quiet.
Ext. 156
Anne Milford (she/her)
Communications Coordinator
Anne writes it all down, assisting with PR and storytelling, social media and anything else we need! She loves spending time with her family, spoiling her dog and frequenting the Gravois Greenway (Grant's Trail).
Ext. 117
Jovany Otero
Volunteer Coordinator
Jovany oversees our community outreach and supports customer service. On the weekends, you’ll find him taking care of his baby, reading, or playing videogames. He and his wife also like road tripping to state and national parks and during the warmer months, taking their dog Yoda for walks at local parks.
Ext. 111
Tagert Rowbotham
Junior Accountant
Tagert makes sure our accounts payable and expense processing functions run smoothly. His attention to detail and focus on process improvement serve him well in the kitchen where he enjoys cooking up anything by Ina Garten. He also loves hiking (state & national parks) and board games.
Ext. 144
Tom Schweiss (he/him)
Conservation Program Manager
Tom helps take care of the greenways, whether it's planning for new habitat or a conservation project with partners. His endless energy and enthusiasm not only make him a great teammate, but also serve him well on his daily runs. He and his wife and kiddos are happiest when they are spending time outside.
Ext. 125
Isabel Shirey
Development Coordinator
Isabel works with our development team to grow and sustain our community of greenway supporters. On weekends, you'll most likely find her outside: whether it’s walking in her St. Louis neighborhood or camping, hiking and foraging for mushrooms!
Ext. 153
Elizabeth Simons (she/her)
Community Program Manager
Elizabeth engages the community through meaningful experiences such as tours, classes, and conversations on the greenways. She's done it all around here and always with a smile! She loves to talk about nature and culture on long walks throughout the St. Louis region.
Ext. 104
Michael Steinlage (he/him)
Senior Project Manager
Michael is a world traveler (30 countries & counting!) and self-proclaimed "National Park Nerd.” He brings everything he's seen and learned in parks and cities around the world to plan and build new greenways! Look for him on the Meramec Greenway with his pup, Wilson.
Ext. 109
Viet Truong
Manager of Finance and Administration
Viet helps oversee finance and administration. His energy and attention to detail serve him well both at work and outside the office where he enjoys mountain biking, cooking, travel, gardening, and making YouTube videos.
Ext. 138
Dee Van Huss
Operations Supervisor
Dee oversees day-to-day operations of the greenways in the southern part of the region. In her free time, she recycles and repurposes furniture and objects in creative ways. She also paddleboards with her dog! Her favorite greenway is the Mississippi Greenway (Riverfront Trail).
Mark Vogl (he/him)
Senior Project Manager, Planning
As one of our senior project managers, Mark leads on local greenway planning and is also responsible for updates to our every-five-year regional plan. He enjoys walking his dogs and training for marathons (lots of them!) on greenways across the region.
Ext. 112
Vanessa Wear
Development Assistant
Vanessa assists the Development Team with all things fundraising. On weekends, she enjoys home improvement projects and searching for "hidden treasures" at antique malls. You also might find her inline skating on the River Des Peres Greenway!
Ext. 140
Ryan Wilson
Operations Coordinator
Ryan supports the maintenance and conservation needs of the greenways. In his free time, he likes to ride bikes and rollerblade around the city with his daughter. Fun Fact: He plays the banjo!
Grace Wright (she/her)
Senior Project Manager
Grace brings her expertise as an engineer, love for the outdoors and “green thumb” to deliver beautiful and well-built greenway projects across the region. In her spare time, she loves to kayak and spend time with her family exploring state and national parks!
Ext. 141
Jeffrey Yung
Production Specialist
Jeffrey is one of our production specialists, supporting all communications efforts through graphic design. He is working on his Master’s degree in Media Design. Outside of school and work, he loves photography, exercising, and hosting board game get-togethers for family and friends.
Ext.
Lisa Chassaing
Outreach Specialist
Jessica Eilerman
Outreach Specialist
Dave Goldsby
Outreach Specialist
Riz Khan
Outreach Specialist
Erin Nichols
Outreach Specialist
Linda Paunicka
Outreach Specialist
Angela Smith
Outreach Specialist
Pat Tovo
Outreach Specialist
April Walker
Outreach Specialist
Sheryll Williams
Outreach Specialist