Meet the Team
The team at the Environmental Science Center is a dedicated group of educators, coordinators, scientists and incredible people passionate about connecting the community with nature. Our collaborative efforts make each program both educational and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on participants and the broader community.
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Joanna Stodden
Executive Director
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Joanna Stodden worked for several environmental consulting firms in Southeast Alaska before joining the Environmental Science Center. She taught environmental education in various settings and served as ESC’s Program Manager from 2015-2019. Joanna advocates for outdoor programming in south King County and partners with community members for educational initiatives.
Kelly Steffen
Grants and Programs Director
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Kelly Steffen has worked in marine and environmental education for years across several states, including as the Director of Education at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. She now manages grants and programs at ESC, focusing on the wonders of the Puget Sound area. Kelly enjoys gardening, camping, and triathlons in her spare time.
Naomie Chamberlain
Development Director
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Naomie Chamberlain holds a degree in Architecture and Urban Development, bringing a global perspective to her work after starting her career internationally. In the US, she is deeply committed to advancing environmental sustainability, expanding renewable energy initiatives, and fostering economic opportunities for immigrant and refugee communities. Outside of work, Naomie enjoys spending time with her dog, Raven, and savoring the comfort of a great cup of coffee.
Katy Kachmarik
Community Engagement Director
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Katy Kachmarik has worked in marine biology research, science education, and community engagement across various institutions, including Highline College and Pacific Science Center. Using her master's degree in biology, conservation, and inquiry based learning she is enthusiastic about making environmental education accessible at ESC. Katy enjoys baking, watching Disney movies, and reading fantasy books.
Rosie Wilson-Briggs
School Programs Manager
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Rosie Wilson-Briggs has worked in outdoor education since 2010. With a background in sailing and scientific illustration, she obtained a master’s degree in Urban Environmental Education from Antioch University Seattle in 2020, focusing on equity and access in education. She is also passionate about LandBack, mutual aid, and mending clothes.
Hanna Jones
Teacher Professional Development Manager
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Hanna Jones designed her interdisciplinary degree in marine science and environmental education at Western Washington University. After completing her Master’s in Education, she returned to ESC to enhance youth-led environmental initiatives. Hanna enjoys SCUBA diving, roller skating, and caring for plants.
Haley Virella-Szwejbka
School Programs Coordinator
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Haley Virella-Szwejbka began her career in outdoor education in Texas and transitioned to the Pacific Northwest, working as a naturalist at ESC. She aims to make environmental science more approachable. Haley is also an avid ceramics hobbyist.
Kia Hang
Community Programs Coordinator
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Kia Hang's love for the environment led her to a B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Washington. She previously worked at Woodland Park Zoo and is now an Afterschool Programs Coordinator at ESC. Kia enjoys video games, drawing, and spending time with family.
Mickiala Gonzales
Operations Coordinator
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Mickiala has lived her entire life in smelling distance of the Puget Sound's (Salish Sea's) low tide. She is passionate about working with kids and connecting this wonderfully diverse community to ESC's meaningful outdoor educational experiences. Mickiala has a bachelor's in Physical Anthropology: Human Evolutionary Biology and a Museum Studies Certification-both from the University of Washington. She loves exploring nature-near and far- with her family.
Robin Lutton
Community Programs Coordinator
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After graduating with a BS in Environmental Science from the University of AZ, Robin headed to Uruguay with the Peace Corp as an Environmental Educator Volunteer. She received a Master’s in both Environmental Science and Latin American Studies at the University of Indiana, then taught science and Spanish at the Humanities and Sciences Highschool in AZ. Robin enjoys hiking, birding, traveling, and spending time with her three kids.
