Our Team
Blue Ridge Conservancy employs nine full-time staff members dedicated to Saving the Places You Love
Charlie Brady, Executive Director
“I care about permanently protecting the lands that are home to sensitive species of plants and animals that also provide compatible public access for recreation.”
Eric Hiegl, Senior Director of Land Protection and Conservation Planning
"I enjoy exploring our diverse landscape; from ecologically significant mountains to working farms in the valleys. We have a unique perspective that allows us to dive deep into the various lands that create our home.”
Ben Lucas, Director of Stewardship
“I am passionate about BRC’s land conservation efforts in the New River Watershed that help make it the outstanding natural and recreational resource that it its.”
Sara Crouch, Director of Development
“I believe that we as humans are part of nature, and our resilience, connections, and culture are linked to our natural environment. In protecting the places we love, we are working towards a healthy and bright future for our region.”
Wendy Patoprsty, Director of the Middle Fork Greenway
"I love that people can get outside and enjoy some of the lands that Blue Ridge Conservancy has worked so hard to protect!"
Jordan Sellers, Northern Peaks State Trail Coordinator
“I love working towards the goal of protecting our precious natural resources while expanding access to the public, so we can all explore and appreciate the landscapes that surround us.”
Leila Jackson, Director of Communications
"I am grateful to be part of this team and its dedication to protecting the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Blue Ridge."
Maria Whaley, Director of Finance
"Knowing that we are working so my great-grandchildren will have the opportunity to hike the same trails and enjoy the same views that I enjoyed with their parents and their grandparents. That is the legacy I want to leave and the manner in which I want to be remembered. "
Jen Grady, Assistant Director of Finance
“Conservation goes beyond protecting land from development. It bridges cultures, politics, and generations. It brings us closer together in the here and now, and in the future. I’m honored to be part of an organization that will leave such a positive legacy.”
Sydney Phillips, Office Manager
“The amazing outdoors of Northwestern North Carolina has been a draw for 3 generations of Phillips. I am thrilled to be a part of a team that is so passionate about truly protecting the places we are lucky enough to call home.”
Abbey Rankins, Land Protection and Stewardship Fellow
“I care deeply about creating resilient, sustainable, and connected communities through land conservation and public access to greenspaces. I am honored to be a part of BRC's mission to protect the astonishing natural and recreational resources of the Blue Ridge Mountains for generations to come.”