Staff & Board


Coalition staff


Kate Hotten

Co-Executive Director

Kathleen Kennedy

Co-Executive Director

Jessica Moreno

Conservation Science Director

Aster Schaefer

Fall 2024 Desert Wildlife Intern

Jonni Zeman

Program and Communications Coordinator


Board of Directors

The Coalition currently has a Board of Directors and an Advisory Committee comprised of representatives from a few of our member groups (and one person that sits on both of these groups to provide continuity and connection between them). We are grateful for the time, effort, and service of all these wonderful professionals that guide us, provide expertise, and assist with our programs. 


Martin Baumrind

Board Treasurer

Carolyn Campbell

Board Member

Christina McVie

Board President

Joy Herr-Cardillo

Board Secretary


Advisory Committee


Bryan Bird

Defenders of Wildlife

Melissa Fratello

Tucson Audubon Society

Russ McSpadden

Center for Biological Diversity

Christina McVie

DesertWatch

Rob Peters

Save the Scenic Santa Ritas


Why do pronouns matter to CSDP?

The Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection respects gender identity.  We understand that we cannot assume to know each others’ pronouns by our names or appearance.  For some of us, it is a privilege not to have to worry about which pronoun will be used based on how our gender is perceived. If we fail to respect someone else’s gender identity, it is not only disrespectful and hurtful but also oppressive.

The Coalition normalizes the practice of sharing our pronouns to challenge the belief that all pronouns can be assumed and to create a supportive community for all people.