Executive Director
Stephen Wiessner email
Steve is responsible for the overall management of Flat Rock Brook. He came to us from the Greater Newark Conservancy, where he was Program Director. He has extensive management experience and holds a Master's degree in environmental policy and a Bachelor's degree in environmental economics.
Education Director
Jill Bennetta email
Jill is responsible for developing and coordinating Flat Rock Brook's programs. She came to Flat Rock Brook from the Lookout Mountain Nature Center in Colorado, and has also worked for the National Audubon Society. Her degree in wildlife and fisheries is from the University of Tennessee. She is a creative and innovative teacher and naturalist.
Land Manager
Ryan Hasko email
Ryan Hasko has worked on a part-time basis at Flat Rock Brook for the past two years. He has recently accepted the full-time position of Land Manager overseeing the management and maintainance of our 150 acres of property. Ryan graduated from Rutgers University in May, 2007 with a degree in Environmental Policies, Institutions, and Behaviors.
Office Administrator
Sandy Chiappino email
Sandy keeps our office running smoothly. She has an eclectic administrative background. She worked for the state of New Jersey for 25 years and since retirement has been employed as a paralegal, a floral designer and managing director of an arts group.
Accountant
Lisa Higgins email
Lisa keeps track of Flat Rock Brooks financial record. She has a degree in accounting and an honors degree in international management. Lisa worked years for a multinational company for nine years. leaving to raise her family. She continues to work as an accountant on a part time basis and currently works two days a week at Flat Rock Brook.
Naturalist
Kristen Pakonis email
Kristen has a Master’s Degree in Environmental Education through the Audubon Expedition Institute, had previously worked with the Nature Center as our Summer Camp Director in 2004 and 2005, and helped with Summer Camp for two weeks again this year. Kristen will be involved in teaching classes for schools and in our outreach programs.
