ABOUT US

Founded in 1964

Thanks to a humble beginning with the estate of Charlie Sigrist and attorney, retired U.S. Rep. Ralph Regula, Dr. Charles King from Malone College and Arnold Fritz, president of the Canton Audubon Society, The Wilderness Center (TWC) has grown from a dream into a community treasure. Dr. Charles King and Arnold Fritz saw the need for a nature center in northeast Ohio. Although they didn't yet have money to make an offer, when they found out about the Sigrist land, they approached Regula with interest, hope, and a concept.

King and Fritz saw that property could effectively serve the surrounding areas, but learned that a strip mining company was also interested. Regula cared deeply about the environment and wanted to preserve the property's pristine forests, so he requested a grant from the Timken Foundation to assist King and Fritz with the formation of TWC. The Timken Foundation donated $67,500 for the purchase of the Sigrist lands and the adjacent Warstler property. The Stark County Foundation, the Canton Garden Center, Dr. Tom Soehnlen and Bernice McKenzie Frease, a state representative, also contributed toward the purchase. 

Growth through the years

The first professional staff were hired in 1965. In 1974, TWC constructed the Nature Center located on the over 600 acre Headquarters property in Wilmot, Ohio, which was then expanded with an addition in 2000. The building continues to provide a focal point for the Center's many activities. In addition to its Nature Center, TWC's headquarters today boast 12 miles of hiking trails, an Astronomy Education Building featuring a digital planetarium and observatory, a Native Plant Nursery and a Nature Playscape. TWC is open to the public year round and admission is free.

There have been four executive directors in TWC's more than 50-year history. Jeremy Felland served as the first leader of the organization, followed in 1981 by Gordon Maupin. Dr. Jeffrey R. Corney assumed the role in 2014 and Jeanne M. Gural was appointed to the position in 2019. Through these changes, the Center's commitment to the community has been constant.

Today and tomorrow

Today, The Wilderness Center remains relevant and continues to stay ahead of the curve through innovative approaches to environmental science education and land conservation. TWC teaches the next generation to appreciate our natural world through school classes and educational programs for children and families, while also offering a variety of classes, workshops, and clubs to interest learners of all ages, including virtual learning opportunities and programs in the surrounding community.

What started as a mere 251 acres in 1964 has become more than 3,499 acres of agricultural land, forest, meadow, wetland and prairie in seven counties. TWC also operates a revolving land fund to assist other conservation organizations in obtaining critical parcels of land, and guides the management of nearly 24,000 acres of privately owned forest through TWC Consulting Forestry.

Through the Backyard Habitat Initiative and Dark Skies Conservation programs, TWC serves as a guide and resource to help our neighbors take small steps toward positive changes for the benefit of our community. TWC's conservation burial ground, Foxfield Preserve, brings the peace of nature to those experiencing loss and grief. An environmentally-friendly alternative to modern burial, Foxfield Preserve also preserves natural land and provides sustainable funding for TWC's conservation efforts.

Jeanne M. Gural

Executive Director

Jeanne was appointed TWC Executive Director in 2019. Prior to that Jeanne had served as Executive Director of the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford, New Jersey, since 2009. Her oversight of Cedar Run included the Woodford Nature Center, an outdoor Wildlife Housing Area with more than 60 native residents and a Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital. Prior to joining Cedar Run, she served as Director of Preserves and Facilities at The Nature Conservancy and as Habitat Restoration Program Manager at Rutgers University. Jeanne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Organismal Biology and Biological Anthropology from Pitzer College in Claremont, Calif., and has completed graduate work in Ecology, Plant Identification, Wildlife Ecology and Habitat Restoration.

Carolyn Bell

Director of Finance and Human Resources

Carolyn officially joined TWC in February 2020, after initially supporting the organization on a subcontract basis beginning in October 2019. She now serves as the Director of Finance and Human Resources. Before joining TWC, Carolyn worked in the Client Advisory Services department at REA & Associates. During her time there, she supported a diverse range of clients across various industries, managing their accounting, payroll, and tax needs. Carolyn earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Akron and is a licensed CPA through the Accountancy Board of Ohio. She is an active member of both the Ohio Society of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Outside of her work at TWC, Carolyn enjoys running, reading, and spending time with her black Labradors.

Sarah Cline

Director of Education

Sarah joined The Wilderness Center team in March of 2025. She brings more than a decade of experience teaching and leading environmental education programs that improve environmental literacy and motivate stewardship action through curiosity-igniting experiences. Previous roles include work as an environmental education research assistant with OSU Extension, a conservation advisor in West Africa, a naturalist educator, and most recently the Director of the Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center in SW Ohio. Sarah holds an M.A.T. in biology and conservation education from Miami University’s Project Dragonfly and a B.S. in environment and natural resource management from Ohio State University. In her free time, she loves gardening, reading, practicing yoga and spending time outside with her husband and their two dogs. 

Dan Volk

Director of Conservation

Dan joined The Wilderness Center in April 2023 as the Associate Director of Conservation and Land Management. Prior to that, Dan was the Forest Health Project Coordinator for Cleveland Metroparks where he worked to understand forest conditions, particularly those vulnerable to pests, pathogens, and climate change. Before that, Dan worked on stream and pond surveys, plant care, and biogeochemistry research at Holden Forests & Gardens and Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Dan received his bachelor's of science in biology from Cleveland State University and his master's of science in biology from University of Central Florida where he focused on population genetics of coral reef gobies. In his spare time, Dan enjoys playing video and board games, spending time with his wife and 4 pets, and DIY projects.

Ben Bravis

Land Steward

Ben is a 2019 Fairless Alumni, and a 2018 Eagle Scout out of Troop 301 in Beach City. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from the University of Akron. He is passionate about the ecology of fishes and wetlands, and is the mind behind the Stark County Fair’s Native Fishes Display. Ben has spent the past 3 years studying and making land management suggestions for the Navarre Bethlehem Township Park / Villiage of Navarre. These two side projects led him to be a founder of a local nonprofit which serves to raise the educational value of village/township level parks. When he's not creating side projects to teach himself new skills, Ben can be found fly fishing in the Tuscarawas River.

Laura Firestone

Development Coordinator

Laura joined The Wilderness Center as Development Coordinator in 2023. She enjoys chatting with TWC members, welcoming volunteers to the Enchanted Forest, and is always happy to take your calls about Tree of Life.

Prior work in the nonprofit sector includes many years at the Akron Art Museum, a brief time at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and early employment as a counselor at a Girl Scout camp. Laura graduated summa cum laude from Kent State University and holds a Master of Business Administration from Walsh University. She loves spending time outdoors, whether working in her native plant garden, hiking with family and friends, or solo backpacking the Appalachian Trail.

Robin Gill

Dark Sky Initiative Coordinator; Astronomy Education Specialist

Robin joined TWC's Education Staff in 2017 after many years as a volunteer and board member. She graduated from Mount Union with a BS in Physics and Astronomy. In addition to a long career in the energy industry, she served as Science Director at the McKinley Museum. She helped to found and nurture the Wilderness Center Astronomy Club for over 25 years. In particular, she contributed to many educational efforts including Astronomy Days, planetarium education, outreach programs and the building of TWC's Astronomy Education Building. 

Angela Henary

Marketing & Outreach Manager

Angela Henary is a mission-driven outreach and marketing professional with a passion for connecting people, community, and the natural world. With a background in nonprofit and youth services, she brings a relational approach to engaging families and strengthening community involvement.

She is deeply aligned with The Wilderness Center’s commitment to conservation, education, and community, and believes in the power of nature to foster discovery, well-being, and connection.

Having grown up in the countryside of Tuscarawas County, Angela developed an early appreciation for the impact of nature on the body, mind, and spirit. She is an avid outdoorswoman who enjoys learning about local wildlife, forests, and conservation, and is passionate about helping others experience that same connection.

Lindsey Jones

Executive Assistant

Lindsey joins The Wilderness Center with several years of working experience in non-profit organizations including 3 years as the Executive Assistant at Twin City Medical Center in Dennison, Ohio and 4 years as Operations Coordinator at Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio in New Philadelphia, Ohio. Lindsey has a certificate in Office Technology and graduated from Buckeye Career Center in 2013.

She grew up in Tuscarawas County, Ohio and currently lives in New Philadelphia with her husband, Chase, her sons, Deegan and Kade, and her cat, Grace. Lindsey enjoys gardening, fishing, watching Football, playing video games and reading books with her family.

Zac Justus

Forestry & Restoration Coordinator

Zac Justus is a Magna Cum Laude graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Science, concentrating on natural resource conservation. During his undergraduate years, he held leadership roles in both the Outdoors Club and the Student Engagement Council, where he empowered students to connect with nature and organized volunteer events. He completed his M.S. in Environmental Science, with a focus on disturbance and restoration ecology, alongside earning a Graduate Academic Certificate in Fire Ecology, Management & Technology. During his graduate studies, Zac also served as a mentor for first-generation college students, helping them navigate academic and professional pathways. He holds various certifications and licenses in land management, ecological field methods, geospatial analysis, and emergency response.

Outside of work, Zac volunteers with various conservation nonprofits and mentors high school students interested in environmental careers. His personal interests include backpacking, hiking, kayaking, woodworking, reading, gardening with native species in his yard, and spending time with family.

Corinne Kallio

Conservation Seasonal Technician

Corinne joined the team in Spring 2026. As a Wooster, Ohio native, she grew up visiting The Wilderness Center and credits those experiences and more to developing a passion for the natural world. 

In December 2025, Corinne graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Organismal Biology and Ecology from Colorado College and is excited to further apply her knowledge to her work at TWC and beyond. Prior to her joining the team, she worked with Flying Pig Farm, Nature’s Educators, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, exploring interests in agroecology, ornithology, and environmental education.
Outside of work Corinne enjoys hiking, reading, birdwatching, and baking. You can also find her shaking lemonades at various county fairs across the state!

Michelle Leighty

Environmental Education Specialist

Michelle joined The Wilderness Center in March of 2023. She has an extensive background in educational programming and animal care. Previous positions include running programs and clubs for the Mentor Public Library, managing the wildlife center at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, working as an assistant at a veterinary hospital, public interpretation and pachyderm keeping at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, and teaching abroad at a school system in Japan. She holds a master’s degree in environmental studies from Cleveland State University and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Ohio University. Her hobbies include photography, traveling, and adventuring outdoors with her Catahoula leopard dog.

Paul Lyon

Custodian

Paul has been working as a part time custodian at the Wilderness Center since 2007.

He lives in Beach City with his wife, Johanna, two children, Abbie and Jake, two dogs, Lucy and Roxy, and two cats, Rose and Bella.

Josh Richardson

Building & Grounds Maintenance Manager

Josh joined the Wilderness Center in June 2023 as the Building and Grounds Manager. He has worked in the electrical trade for 15 years and brings experience in project management. Josh also previously worked as a crew leader for Portage Park District maintaining parks and trails. He holds an associate degree in electrical trade technology and completed a 5-year apprenticeship to become a journeyman electrician. In his spare time, he likes hiking, camping, and spending time with his wife and two sons.

Allyse Moseley
Store Clerk and Administrative Assistant

I have experience in a variety of roles, including shipping and receiving, customer service, and assistant management, which have given me a well-rounded background and a passion for working with people. My love for the outdoors made The Wilderness Center a natural fit, providing the opportunity to connect with visitors while continuing to learn about the natural world.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my furry companions and taking them on outdoor adventures. I also love swimming and baking sweet treats to share with family and friends.

Serena Solis

Environmental Education Coordinator

Serena joined the Wilderness Center team in November of 2022. Originally from Michigan found herself in Ohio for college where she recently graduated from Bowling Green State University with a BA in Environmental Policy and Analysis with a specialization in Restoration. Serena has had different environmental education experiences with volunteering and an internship experience at Nature’s Nursey and a seasonal position at the Holden Arboretum. She has also had many leadership experiences with her college’s learning community, Chapman, where they focused on community service and building on leadership skills. She also has shown leadership and teamwork during her time as a baton twirler for 15 years. Some things that Serena loves to do in her free time are exploring different nature areas, watching movies, and occasionally horseback riding.

Sky Ward

Store Clerk / Administrative Assistant

Sky joined TWC in October of 2024. She comes to us eager to utilize her administrative skills and to combine her passion for customer satisfaction with her love of nature. She attended Kent State University and has a background in retail management, administration, and customer service. A resident of Tuscarawas County, Sky enjoys reading and spending time with her daughter.

Sarah Watson

Development and Marketing Associate

Sarah joined the Wilderness Center in May 2023 as a recent graduate from Wittenberg University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication & Digital Media, and has had different experiences with digital marketing and consulting for small businesses. She was chosen as one of a few students for her university’s prestigious Communication and Business Leadership Experience, and has gained sufficient leadership and teamwork experience as a result. She is looking forward to joining the team at the Wilderness Center and developing these skills, along with others, even further! In Sarah’s free time, she enjoys going for walks in nature with her dog, Roxie, hammocking, kayaking, and spending time with friends and family.

Barbara Yoder

Foxfield Preserve Manager

Barbara became a member of TWC in 2007 when her family moved to Ohio, at which time she began regularly attending events with her then three and five year old children. Since that time Barbara has viewed TWC as an essential support in raising her children with a love of Nature.

Barbara firmly believes in the power of nature to soothe and heal. She has personally experienced the potential of the Foxfield Preserve to be a nurturing place for families, as she buried a family member in the Forest area in 2010.

Her professional career has covered projects in energy policy and research, government-led energy efficiency projects, and soil and water conservation. She has an interest in religious studies and anthropology. Barbara is an active volunteer: teacher and leader for a homeschool co-op, a poll worker, a member of the Education committee for The Wilderness Center, and costume manager for Ballet Wooster. She lives in Wooster with her husband and two children.