Meet the New E.D. Amy Rhodes!
In late November 2024, Wesselman Woods welcomes our newest Executive Director: Amy Rhodes!
Originally from Noblesville, Indiana, Amy Rhodes first experienced the majesty of Wesselman Woods when she visited as an undergraduate student at the University of Evansville in the early 90s. Thirty years later, Amy returned to Evansville with her husband, local artist Kevin Titzer, and now finds herself stepping into the position of Executive Director of the nation’s largest, virgin old-growth forest within a city’s limits.
“I am honored to accept this leadership role and thrilled by the opportunity to collaborate with a passionate board of directors, talented staff, dedicated volunteers, and supportive members all working for the same mission of connecting people to nature and protecting this very special place.”
Amy’s early career as an AMS-certified Montessori Elementary Educator introduced her to a holistic, systems-approach to learning and facilitative leadership. She later went on to complete a master’s degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Management from Ball State University with a focus in place-based education for sustainable development. Rhodes ran her own business, Listen To The Land, from 2011 to 2017 during which time she developed and operated agriculture and ecotourism programs for small farms throughout Indiana.She has assisted small businesses and non-profit organizations in strategic planning and development.
The former restoration ecologist and sales manager for Spence Restoration Nursery, one of the Midwest’s largest native plant and seed companies, has worked with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Department of Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, Indiana land trusts and nature preserves, and municipal parks and recreation.
After to moving to Evansville in 2020, she has served as Sustainable Living Manager at Seton Harvest, and most recently as an Agriculture & Natural Resource Educator for Purdue Extension in Posey County.
“I’m excited to join the Wesselman Woods team and help continue the momentum created under Zach Garcia’s leadership.I think my unique, diverse background in education, tourism, business development, and restoration ecology will serve the organization and the land community well.”