Congratulations to the January 2025 Sierra Corps Forestry Fellows!
The Sierra Nevada Alliance is delighted to recognize the accomplishments of three outstanding Sierra Corps Forestry Fellows who have successfully completed their terms this January. These individuals have contributed invaluable work to the Sierra Nevada region, advancing forest health, community resilience, and environmental education.
Ginger Jui, Forestry Instructional Support Specialist Fellow at Columbia College, played a key role in the Greater Sierra Forestry Corps Program by coordinating field exercises, maintaining specialized equipment, and supporting student safety. Ginger also provided administrative support and mentored students, contributing to workforce development in forest health and wildfire resilience. After graduating they started working as a Prescribed Fire Practitioner with the Nature Conservancy’s North American RX Fire Crew!
Maddie Tutton, Sierra National Forest Reforestation Coordinator with American Forests, contributed directly to the recovery of fire-impacted ecosystems. Maddie’s work included expanding cone monitoring and collection efforts, administering seed collection contracts, and evaluating cone crops, bolstering reforestation initiatives on the Sierra National Forest. After graduating she is planning to hike the Pacific Crest Trail!
Kevin Kirk, Forest Health Project Specialist with the Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council, played a key role in supporting the council’s mission to mitigate wildfire risks and enhance forest resilience. Kevin’s efforts included researching and drafting grant applications, managing funded programs, and collaborating closely with program managers to implement impactful solutions for the community. After graduating Kevin is going to work for his host site, Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council as the Defensible Space Program Manager!
The Sierra Nevada Alliance is incredibly proud of Ginger, Maddie, and Kevin for their dedication and remarkable contributions. Their work embodies the mission of the Sierra Corps Forestry Fellowship Program to address the pressing environmental challenges of the Sierra Nevada while building capacity for local organizations.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these accomplished fellows and wish them continued success in their future endeavors. Thank you for your commitment to the Sierra Nevada and beyond!