Officers

Phil Rizzi, Chair
My participation with ACE is a continuation of a lifelong commitment to the environment and outdoors. As a resident of Arlington (Ashton Heights neighborhood) since 1988, I appreciate the parks and open space that we have and am deeply aware of the challenges associated with preserving our natural environment in a densely populated community. As the Arlington community continues to grow and evolve, it is critical that we retain and improve as much as possible the natural environment that so many of us enjoy. I also appreciate that ACE is a homegrown institution that builds on the finest tradition of individual involvement and volunteerism in the community. I believe that my 15 years in environmental policy and management consulting provides me with the background, knowledge, and expertise to meaningfully contribute to ACE's future growth and successes.

Alan Schreck, Vice Chair
I have always been a volunteer with environmental groups. In New Jersey, I was on the board of the New Jersey Association of Environmental Commissions, a member of a local planning board, vice-chair of an environmental commission and a board member of a watershed association. Since moving to Virginia, I have volunteered as an officer of the Virginia Society of Ornithology and as a board member of ACE.

Richard Stern, Treasurer
As a lifelong Washingtonian and Arlington resident since 1998, I am keenly interested in preserving and protecting Arlington's environment. While I have worked in the public health arena for most of my career, I have long held an interest in environmental issues and have worked at times for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund. I see ACE as a highly effective, "hands on" organization that capitalizes on the energy and idealism of its members, staff, and volunteers by developing partnerships with local government and business. I hope to contribute to this success by using my legal background and experience in government service.

Directors

Ryan Cunningham
I’m a communications consultant for a range of national environmental organizations, helping them design campaigns that motivate lawmakers, corporations, and the public to take action on climate change and habitat conservation.  I first became interested in ACE because I wanted to know more about Arlington’s recycling policies.  What I discovered is an organization that has deep roots in the community, works closely with our local leaders and schools, and is committed to preserving our environment for future generations.  This is an exciting time to be working on environmental issues, and I’m proud to be a part of ACE’s community-focused efforts to help Arlington go green.

Elizabeth Gearin
My professional focus is in community development, specifically related to sustainable cities, urban greening, and the impact of the environment on children. I have seven years experience as a professional planner, and am a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). I am currently completing my Ph.D. in Policy and Development at USC. I am actively involved with the Virginia Master Gardener Program, work with local schools on environmental education, and recently launched an annual stream cleanup program in North Arlington. I am excited about having the opportunity to work with ACE to continue to improve Arlington’s environment.

Lisa Gomes-Casseres
I've had an interest in environmental protection since I was a little girl, and I have made environmental protection my career. I spend my days working on national environmental issues, and I wanted to get involved on a local level as well. Even in the seven short years that I've known Arlington, I've seen significant changes as the County becomes more developed. While I believe the growth is manageable, it should be done with a close eye on protecting our natural resources. I believe that ACE has been highly effective at educating Arlington residents and policymakers on the importance of protecting our environment. I'd like to help continue that tradition, and increase the positive impact that ACE can have locally by reaching a larger portion of the population, being a stronger voice on important policy issues, and joining forces with other local organizations.

Katelyn Keefe
I have been involved in and passionate about community and environmental service activities for as long as I can remember. Over the last year and a half, I've coordinated the Citizen Science Program, one of SustainUS' two national programs, and fostered growth and strengthened communications in this emerging program. I would like to utilize my skills and talents in marketing and communications gained from my position as an environmental consultant and as a volunteer, to serve as an ACE Board member. I believe that the work that ACE does deserves passionate and dedicated individuals, such as myself.

Leslie Keller
I believe that sustainable ways of living are incredibly important for our future on countless levels. By working on the ACE Board of Directors I hope to gain helpful knowledge of how to implement the many convenient and enduring changes that can be made in order to positively affect our environment, both locally and globally. I have a special interest in the use of organic goods and alternative energy sources. I also believe very strongly in student involvement with organizations such as ACE and the education of all students about current and past Environmental issues. I am a Senior at H-B Woodlawn High School and a part of the high school’s Environmental Club.

Kevin Shea
I’ve been an Arlington resident for the last 29 years and have watched the environmental awareness within the community grow. Through both my education and my volunteer work I have been provided an outlet for my conservation ethic and my love of birds. Recently I’ve made the decision to change careers and search for work in the field of Conservation. I have a wide knowledge of issues relating to the quality of our environment and am keenly interested in our local bird populations. I've participated in ACE activities and seen the results of their work in my community. I feel that by serving on the ACE board I can contribute to keeping Arlington the same clean County I grew up in.

Bart Yablonsky
My interest in healthier living started shortly after college when I began working for Fresh Fields, which later merged with Whole Foods Market. When looking for a business to build together with my wife, Paige, I waned to stay with an environmentally conscious venture. Natural Body provided the perfect opportunity. My commitment to healthy foods broadened to healthy beauty aids and then to building green and understanding how vitally important it is to reduce our carbon foot print, reduce energy use and recycle in everything we do. I want to help other small businesses learn how to make better choices for the environment and teach our clients how important it is to leave free of chemicals and preservatives.

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