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Today’s Story: Zach Garcia, Jerry Rairdon, and Kristina Arwood with Wesselman Woods 

Wesselman Woods and Howell Wetlands are two of Indiana’s most unique natural spaces and important habitats. Come to Common Grounds on March 30 for a short narrative journey with the team of Wesselman Woods as they share what the future holds for both properties and how you and your companies can get involved.

Zach Garcia, a native of Northwest Indiana, focuses on forestry and environmental humanities. His undergraduate experience started at UW-Madison, where he majored in Geography, French Language and Literature, and Japanese Language and Literature. Later, he studied forestry and environmental humanities at the Yale School of the Environment for his graduate degree.

His service as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Nepal cultivated an understanding of community engagement and environmental challenges. Joining Wesselman Woods in 2019 as the Director of Environmental Education, Zach's leadership culminated in assuming the role of Executive Director in January 2022. He also serves on the Indiana Community Forestry Council Board.

Jerry, Director of Development with Wesselman Woods moved to Evansville from Central Indiana to be near two of his daughters and three grandchildren. He served 42 years as a United Methodist pastor in five communities within the state of Indiana before retiring to start this new phase of his life. Jerry has a significant history of community engagement having worked as a basketball coach in three school systems, launched Dad's programs in two schools, served for 8 years as a SWAT Team negotiator with the Floyd County Sheriff's Department and creating an organic farm which donated fresh produce to Hamilton County food pantries

Switching jobs amid a global pandemic may seem like a risky choice but Kristina made the leap of faith in early 2021 and became the Director of Marketing and Community Engagement at Wesselman Woods. Marketing the largest urban old-growth forest in the United States is no small task! But being an animal lover, science nerd, and lifelong learner means the role comes naturally to her.

8:00 AM - Doors Open, get your cup of Joe Brewski coffee

8:30 AM - A five minute story highlighting something (or someone) innovative, entrepreneurial or simply positive happening in our community.

9:00 AM - Party’s over but you’re welcome to continue conversations in the lobby at Innovation Pointe

All are welcome to come and go at any time. No registration required.

Great Coffee, Great People and Stories featuring Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Evansville region. This bi-weekly event is hosted by E-REP and made possible through the support of Evansville Tech-on-Tap with special thanks to Joe Brewski Coffee.