BNRC Welcomes New Staff and Seasonal Trail Crew
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LENOX, Mass. — Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) is welcomes several new staff members to its growing team this season, strengthening the organization's capacity to care for conserved lands, support community engagement, and advance conservation efforts across Berkshire County.
Joining BNRC's leadership team is Gretchen Weber, who recently stepped into the role of Chief of Staff. Weber brings extensive experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, event production, and organizational operations. Since relocating to the Berkshires in 2016, she has remained active in the region's nonprofit community and is eager to support BNRC's mission while deepening her knowledge of conservation and land stewardship.
BNRC also welcomes Alexandra Mushinski as Grants and Institutional Giving Manager. Mushinski brings more than seven years of nonprofit fundraising and management experience spanning social services, museums, performing arts organizations, and conservation. Her background in both fundraising and hands-on conservation work will help strengthen BNRC's partnerships with foundations and institutional supporters.
The Stewardship team continues to grow with the addition of Josh Stecker, Stewardship Associate. A longtime visitor to the Berkshires before becoming a full-time resident, Stecker studied Natural Resources at the University of Vermont and has worked in outdoor education, vineyard management, and land stewardship. Most recently, he worked with The Trustees in Berkshire County, helping care for trails and natural landscapes throughout the region.
Joining the team for the season is Dina Bilotta, Stewardship and Trails Intern. A Berkshire County native, Bilotta brings experience in trail maintenance, outdoor education, agriculture, and environmental stewardship. She will support BNRC's ongoing efforts to maintain trails, improve visitor experiences, and care for conserved properties throughout the summer.
BNRC's seasonal Trail Crew also returns to the field this year. The crew includes returning team member Robin Guanci, along with new crew members Dante Giampaolo and Joe LaFortune. Together, they will help maintain and improve trails across BNRC reserves, ensuring safe and welcoming access to the outdoors for the thousands of people who visit conserved lands each year.
"Each of these individuals brings unique experiences, perspectives, and talents to our organization," said Jenny Hansell, BNRC's President. "Their contributions will help strengthen BNRC's mission to conserve and connect people to the landscapes that make the Berkshires feel like the Berkshires."
As BNRC continues its work to conserve land, steward Berkshire ecosystems, and provide public access to the outdoors, these new team members will play an important role in supporting both the organization's growth and its long-term impact throughout the region.
