Vicki grew up in Northeast Ohio, near the shores of Lake Erie. Growing up surrounded by plentiful natural beauty instilled in her a passion for protecting the environment. After graduating from The Ohio State University, Vicki went on to work for local conservation groups. Before her love for the west brought her out to Arizona in the fall of 2010, Vicki was the Watershed Planning & Land Protection Coordinator with the Grand River Partners in Northeast Ohio. She is passionate about anything and everything to do with the outdoors including camping, kayaking, and fishing. Vicki joined the Land Trust staff in December 2011 as the Conservation Director.  In late 2016, she assumed her role as President & CEO and is proud to be a part of such an amazing group of dedicated members, volunteers, stewards, and supporters.

Sue grew up in Fairview Park, Ohio, a west side suburb of Cleveland.  She and her husband, Brian headed west to Arizona in 1987 seeking warm weather and sunshine.  It’s a move they don’t regret. Sue has nearly 20 years’ experience working for nonprofit organizations in the Scottsdale area.  Her love of the outdoors, hiking and wildlife led her to Desert Foothills Land Trust.  She was hired in February 2023 as Chief Development Officer, and is proud to be a part of such an amazing organization.

Rachel Stringham grew up in the Phoenix area and has a deep love for our diverse desert ecosystem. She’s passionate about connecting people with their local landscape through hands-on experiences in nature. She has 8 years of experience as an environmental educator, including in the high school science classroom. Rachel spends much of her time volunteering with a variety of environmental organizations, especially doing wildlife restoration projects and community science. She enjoys wildlife photography, travel, and making things. Rachel joined the Desert Foothills Land Trust team in 2023 as the Director of Community Engagement. She’s honored to be a part of such an incredible community of passionate people, working to preserve our precious desert.