Full Time
Anne Moore Siebecker - Executive Director & Trustee
Anne has a degree in Business Administration & Management from Centenary College in Hackettstown, NJ. In addition to her role on our Board, she also serves as the New Weis Center's Director, and oversees the operations, education programs, marketing, development, partnerships and intern programs. After leaving the corporate world (Sony, Hunter Douglas) where she held positions as a marketing manager and project leader, Anne earned a certificate in Green Technologies and Sustainability from Bergen Community College, and was certified as a Rutgers Environmental Steward in 2016. She was the recipient of the 2017 NJ Governor's Jefferson Award for public service in Environmental Stewardship, and has been nominated for the Russ Berrie "Making a Difference Award" four times (2018-2021). She serves on the NJ Commission on Environmental Education, and the Morris County Vocational School's Academy for Environmental Science Advisory Council. She is also First Aid/CPR/AED certified and Mental Health First Aid certified. Anne is a Ringwood, NJ resident with a deep appreciation for the region's rich history, natural beauty and abundant wildlife. In addition to her work at Weis, she serves the community as a Ringwood Environmental Commissioner, member of the Sustainable Ringwood Green Team, and Friends of the Ringwood Library.
Reflections: My role with The New Weis Center has provided the pathway to channel my passion for connecting people with nature, to share the importance of environmental education, and to mentor the next generation as they pursue environmental careers. I feel fortunate to have such wonderful colleagues and co-workers who continually inspire and motivate me. I’m thankful to have this opportunity to support my community, provide meaningful experiences to so many, and to know that I’m truly making a difference!’
Lauren Lynch - Lead Educator
Lauren graduated from Ramapo College of NJ with a degree in Environmental Science. She has previous work experience at Plant Detectives Garden Center in Chester, NJ, where she assisted customers with garden design and plant selection. She has also worked at the children's garden at the Marydell Faith and Life Center in Nyack, NY, teaching children about organic gardening and the importance of our connection to our food. In her free time she leads guided nature programs for Passaic County Parks & Recreation and Ridgewood Wildscape Association. Lauren initially came to The New Weis Center for an environmental field internship in 2019, and did an excellent job as a field trip educator and summer camp counselor. After her internship finished, she joined our team as a part-time environmental educator, before moving up to full-time Lead Educator. She is certified in First Aid & CPR/AED, Mental Health First Aid and Wilderness First Aid, and brings an extensive plant knowledge and love of the outdoors to her role at Weis. As our Lead Educator, Lauren develops and leads school field trips, homeschool programs, scout badges and public programs, and coordinates the special needs transition team programs. She also developed and leads our popular Forest Bathing walks, and will introduce a gardening-based pre-K program next year.
Reflections: Words are hard to find when the experience has been so grand. I am so grateful for The New Weis Center, the Weis community, and the land that we are able to take care of and teach with. The environment and people here have continually lifted me up to grow in ways I never thought I could. To be able to say my job is all about connecting people to nature feels like a blessing, and the children's faces that light up when we immerse them in the forest is a feeling like no other. I cannot thank The New Weis Center enough for giving me the opportunity to grow in my position, myself, and my passions.
Nicole Vaccaro - Environmental Educator & Program Coordinator
Nicole graduated from Ramapo College with an Environmental Studies degree, and has a background in community volunteer work and customer service. She joined our team as an education intern in Fall 2021, and did such a terrific job we hired her as a part-time educator when her internship finished! She is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Ecology and Evolution at Rutgers University (graduating in 2025( where she is working as a Teacher's Assistant for two Biology courses. Her previous work experience includes a position as an assistant curator at the Rutgers Chrysler Herbarium where she studied and categorized thousands of plant species to align existing data with modern research. In her role at Weis, she coordinates our scout programs (Girl Scouts, Scouts BSA & Cub Scouts) and is an certified and experienced Scouts BSA merit badge Counselor, as well as coordinating our outreach, leading field trips, and developing program curriculum. She is also Wilderness First Aid certified. After graduation, Nicole plans to become a college professor.
Reflections: I am extremely thankful for my opportunities here at The New Weis Center to not only learn something new every day, but to be able to share what I learn with others; whether that's in public programs, scouting events, or school field trips - it is such an important skill to have. As a scientist studying plant life, the opportunity to be able to share what I'm learning within the same week that I've been researching it is invaluable. The ability to learn and to share what we learn not only strengthens communities, but engages us into the beauty of the natural world.
Part-Time
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATORS
Chris Campbell
Chris has a degree in Education and Psychology, with a specialization in Early Childhood education from the College of Saint Elizabeth, in Morristown, NJ. Her previous experience includes positions as a lead pre-k teacher for Kradle 2 Kindergarten in Ringwood, NJ and Building Blocks of Learning in Pequannock, NJ. She is a certified NJ Elementary School Teacher N-8, is Wilderness First Aid certified, and has completed several courses with the TrailBound Project Outdoor School, including 'Women in the Wilderness' and 'Firemaking'. Chris' interests include gardening, hiking, digital art/Photoshop, DIY arts & crafts, and aromatherapy. Chris is particularly excited to work with our younger visitors, and developed the curriculum for our Fall 2024 Homeschool sessions.
Laney Darmiento - Environmental Educator & Sustainability Coordinator
Laney graduated from the University of Scranton with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. Between independent research and an internship with the Clean Water Action of NJ, she became interested in local sustainability initiatives and environmental policy. She joined the team as an intern in the summer of 2021, and then came on board as a part time educator and naturalist upon graduation. In addition to her role at Weis, Laney served as the 2022-2023 AmeriCorps Northern NJ Source Water Protection Ambassador, traveling throughout the state providing educational programs to schools and scout troops, leading environmental stewardship projects, and conducting NJDEP regulated Tier 3.1 assessments to measure stream health. In 2024, she joined us full time as Environmental Educator, Program & Sustainability Coordinator, which allowed her to gain more insight into the workings of a nonprofit organization and build closer ties to the communities that the Center serves. While her main experience has been within the environmental education and community outreach sectors, she recently moved to FL to continue her environmental career and pursue a masters degree with a focus on green infrastructure and urban planning. Happily, she will continue working for The New Weis Center remotely on a part-time basis, focusing on sustainability and program development. In her free time, Laney enjoys reading, crocheting, and volunteering with her local animal shelter.
Reflections: I am so grateful that I have been given the opportunity to work at Weis. Not only has this position helped me to develop professionally in my field, but it has allowed me to grow as a person and explore new interests. I cannot thank the Director Anne, my coworkers, and the Highlands Nature Friends Trustees enough for their endless support.
Kurt Fiebiger
Kurt is currently a student at Ramapo College of New Jersey, graduating in May 2025 with a degree Environmental Studies and minors in Sociology and Anthropology. He initially joined the New Weis Center as a seasonal intern and moved into a part time position after enjoying the internship so much. Kurt plans to join the National Parks Service after college to continue in a similar line of work. He looks forward to a position that includes travel, as he has great admiration for people and experiencing different lifestyles and cultures.
Tori Gooden
Tori has a a BA from Alvernia University, and received her Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification from New Jersey City University. She currently works as a Special Needs Teacher at the Windsor Learning Center in Pompton Lakes, NJ, where she provides classroom instruction to a range of neurodiverse students. Her previous experience includes a position at Starlight Farms in Ringwood, where she assisted with therapeutic riding lessons and coordinated summer camp lessons and activities. Tori has experience creating innovative lesson plans and comfortable learning environments. She is a former Girl Scout with a passion for the outdoors and hands-on learning, and brings enthusiasm, dedication and a positive attitude to her position at Weis.
Mike Lefebvre
Mike is a passionate environmental educator and naturalist dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation for nature within communities, and delivering engaging educational programs that explore local ecosystems, with a focus on plants and birds. He earned a Master’s in Emergency Management from the University of New Haven, and a B.S. in Business Administration from Ramapo College. After working for many years in the corporate world, he transitioned to new roles that enable him to empower individuals and communities to connect with nature. Mike’s experience as a Certified Instructional Substitute Teacher showcases his ability to inspire and guide students in their learning journeys, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. Active in the Fyke Nature Association, Mike holds leadership roles as Publicity Chairperson and 1st Vice President, where he coordinates educational initiatives and fosters community engagement in conservation efforts. He currently works as a part-time Educator and Naturalist with NJ Audubon, a freelance Naturalist leading walks and talks for different environmental organizations, and now as a part-time Environmental Educator for The New Weis Center!
Peter Lundell
Peter received an Associate in Science degree from Bergen Community College in 2020, and is currently a student at Ramapo College of New Jersey pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science with a concentration in geological studies. He initially served as an environmental intern from Fall 2022 to Spring 2023; after completing his term he joined the team as a part-time Educator. Peter enjoys teaching school field trips and seasonal programs (such as maple sugaring), and specializes in geological programs. He is a certified Scouts BSA Merit Badge Counselor, is First Aid & CPR certified, and looks forward to obtaining more outdoor certifications in the future. He hopes to use his college education to enhance his ability as an environmental instructor or consultant, and to teach those who are also passionate about the outdoors and all it has to offer. During Peter’s spare time you can catch him hiking in Northern NJ and NY state, fishing the east coast and New England’s freshwaters, or practicing fieldcraft in the Ramapo Mountains.
Grace McCarthy
Grace is a 2022 graduate of Drew University with a degree in Biology. She joined us for an environmental education internship in 2023, before transitioning to a p/t educator position.
Tracy McCormick
Tracy has a BA in General Humanities and an MA in Guidance and Counseling from Montclair University of NJ, and a Graduate Certification in Elementary Education for N-8 William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ. She joins our staff after a long and successful career teaching 1st and 4th in Nutley, NJ, where she was also the coordinator of the Green Rangers Outdoor Environmental Club for many years. Tracy is a former Girl Scout and troop leader, and looks forward to developing and leading our badge programs. She has a lifelong appreciation and love for nature and environmental stewardship
Olivia Trezza
Olivia graduated with a degree in Sustainability from Ramapo College in NJ, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA and was a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta honor society. After working as a garden and program assistant at Ort Farms for three years, she took an environmental science course that led to her appreciation and passion for environmental preservation and education. At Ramapo, Olivia served as President of Debate Club, Vice President for 1STEP environmental club and the Garden Club, and officer for Ramapo Green. She was also a member of Ramapo’s chapter of the Sunrise Movement (climate change and sustainability activism) and the NJ Food & Water Action. Olivia previously interned for an online wholesale construction marketplace, where she helped develop a sustainability roadmap for vendors and contractors, and assessed their products using the LEED sustainability rating system. In 2023, Olivia also began interning for the NJ Composting Council. She was the recipient of the Ramapo College May H. Weis Environmental Award for 2022-2023, which included a scholarship and full year internship at The New Weis Center, during which she served as a lead camp counselor and environmental educator. After finishing her internship at our Center, she joined us as a part-time Environmental Educator. Her post-graduate plans are to obtain a Ph.D. in Sustainability and become a college professor.
Charlene Trippeda
Charlene graduated from Ramapo College with a degree in Environmental Science/Plant Studies. She was active in many college clubs and organizations, including Admissions Student Ambassador, Ramapo Leaders in Service Peer Mentor, Garden Club, and 1STEP Environmental Club. Her earlier professional experience includes positions at the Meadowlands Environmental Center, MEVO Farms, and Hackensack Riverkeepers. We began working Charlene when she became a recipient of the Ramapo College May H. Weis Environmental Award for 2021-2022, which included a full year internship at The New Weis Center, during which she served as a lead camp counselor and environmental educator. After graduating, Charlene traveled around the country working seasonal conservation jobs that sought to preserve native plants, help injured wildlife, and monitor water quality. She currently works full time as a Teacher's Assistant with Bergen County Special Services, and continues at The New Weis Center as a part-time Educator. She is passionate about environmental education and providing a fun outlet for people to explore how awesome the outdoors can be. In her free time, Charlene enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family.
Reflections: I am so grateful for the opportunity to work at The New Weis Center. If it wasn’t for the May H. Weis Environmental Award, I would not have been able to work with such amazing people and grow into the person I am today.
Morganne Vogel
Morganne is a former Weis intern who has continued with us as a part-time educator. She graduated from William Paterson University with dual degrees in Environmental Sustainability and Disability Studies. During her time at WPU, she was President of the environmental club and the recipient of the Making a Difference Award, the Benevolence Award and the Environmental Science Award. She is an instructor for WPU's special needs Transition Program, teaching students from ages 18-21 career readiness skills and professional development. Morganne works at Staten Island C & D, LLC, where she tracks waste and handles administrative functions. In her free time, she is training for an OSHA certification.
Reflections: I am grateful to be a part of The New Weis Center programs. I love teaching kids about the environment around us. I am always happy to see them enjoying the program that we put together. I am thankful to be a part of such an amazing team.
Fu-Xin Wilson Rupprecht
Fu-Xin graduated from the Birch School high school in June 2023, and completed an internship at our Center during his final semester. He has participated in multiple wilderness programs, including 4 Elements Earth Education, and worked at The Birch School's Forest School while in high school. Fu-Xin grew up loving nature and the outdoors, and his experience at the Farm & Wilderness Foundation summer camp inspired him to pursue that passion. Fu-Xin's work experience includes a position as a ski instructor at Campgaw Mountain Ski Are, coaching for the Newburgh Rowing Club, and a former member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Upon graduation, he joined us as an Educator while he continues his professional development and pursues a career in outdoor education. Fu-Xin particularly enjoys working at our maple sugaring programs and school field trips. Fu-Xin is Wilderness First Aid certified and is working towards completing all levels of TrailBound Project outdoor skills courses. He says he learns something new every time he is here, and feels thankful for the opportunity to share that knowledge with others.
SUPPORT STAFF
Jeremy Strube - Marketing Administrator, Tech Support, Gardens & Grounds, Archivist
Jeremy has been involved with the Weis Center (then known as the Weis Ecology Center) since he came for his first visit as a toddler to see the lifecycle of the butterfly sign. He began volunteering in 2018 before transitioning to part-time staff. In addition to assisting with marketing communications and administration, he also assists with the design and upkeep of the garden and grounds, and works to categorize and display documents and artifacts in our history room and virtually on the website. Jeremy received the rank of Eagle Scout in 2018, and built a gaga ball pit by our pavilion for his Eagle project. He graduated in 2024 with a B.S. in Plant Science from the University of Delaware with a minor in Insect and Wildlife Conservation. This past summer he completed an Environmental Stewardship Internship with Delaware State Parks, focusing on invasive species identification and management. He plans to pursue a master's degree focusing on plant pathology.
Matthew Porta - Buildings & Grounds and Program Assistant
Matthew is a Ringwood resident and Lakeland Regional High School school student who attended summer nature camp at our Center for several years. He joined us as a regular volunteer in 2022, before transitioning to p/t staff in 2023. Matthew plays the violin and is a member of the Lakeland Regional High School marching band (alto and baritone saxophone) and the color guard. He enjoys camping and loves to be outdoors, and traveling with his family, including recent trips to Alaska and Washington, D.C. He enjoys assisting at our seasonal events like pumpkin chunkin and maple sugaring, and is a favorite with our staff and the public, as he is enthusiastic, helpful and always ready to lend a hand.
INTERN EDUCATORS
We are fortunate to have college interns from Ramapo College join us every year, as part of the "May H. Weis Environmental Award". The award was established In 1984 with a generous donation in May Weis’ memory by her son, Leonard W. Weis, Ph.D. It is a joint program between Ramapo College and The New Weis Center. Recipients of the award participate in a one-year paid internship and receive a full tuition scholarship for one semester at Ramapo College. They receive extensive training and professional development, and assist with environmental education programs including field trips, nature camps, scout badges and public programs.
Our May H. Weis interns for 2024-2025 are Yasmin Thomas and Vitor Caneva
SEASONAL INTERNS
We also accept seasonal interns of all ages throughout the year on a rolling basis. Depending on their experience and the requirements of the specific internship, they may assist with field trips, nature camps, scout programs, public programs, conservation, gardening/landscaping, marketing, non-profit administration and outreach.
Our current seasonal interns are Sarah Riether and Michael Masercola
Learn more about our current Interns and Internship programs
Meet our hardworking Board of Trustees
Meet Our Staff