Staff
Click on a name to see more information.
Kim Beardwood Smith, Development Officer
Kim received a B.A. in English from St. Lawrence University and M.B.A. in General Management with Certificates in Strategic Marketing Management and Small Business and Entrepreneurship from Plymouth State University. Kim joined Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in 2017 as Development Officer and currently works to foster sponsorships, maintain memberships, and research and write grants. She started in non-profit development at the Loon Preservation Committee and later at the Plymouth Regional Chamber of Commerce. Kim also has a background in marketing, advertising, and business development. She is board member of the NH and VT Charitable Gift Council and previously served on the Vermont Achievement Center and Lakes Region Mental Health (formerly Genesis Behavioral Health) boards.She lives in Holderness with her husband, Scott, and their dog, Logan.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
All of the living creatures, including the staff and volunteers, make the Science Center a magical place to experience nature, learning, and adventure. For years I’ve been a visitor and member and am thrilled to be working with staff and volunteers to help create that magic for others to enjoy.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Sunny summer Saturdays are perfect for hiking the woods, reading on the beach, or enjoying the lake with my husband, dog, and friends.
, x 131
Paul Brochu, Operations Manager
Paul earned a B.A. in biology at Middlebury College, then was commissioned in the U.S. Navy, where he served in destroyers for seven years before shifting to the Navy Medical Service Corps. He served in a variety of sea and shore public health positions with the Navy and Marine Corps around the globe for the remainder of his 30-year career. Along the way, he earned both a S.M. and Sc.D. in environmental health from the Harvard School of Public Health. Prior to becoming Operations Manager, Paul was a volunteer docent and a Tour Captain at Lake Cruise Headquarters.
What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
Meeting interesting people from all over the world and talking with them about the ecosystems and natural history of New Hampshire.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
If I’m not already on the lake on a charter or tour, then probably in a kayak or other boat on a local river or pond.
Dennis Capodestria, Exhibits Assistant

, x 142
Eric D'Aleo, Naturalist
Eric received a B.S. in Biology from State University of New York at Geneseo and completed some graduate courses there and at Plymouth State University. He has a New Hampshire Secondary certification in the biological sciences (grade 7 – 12) and has taught science in elementary, junior high, and high schools. Currently, Eric chairs the Science Center’s Green Team, which focuses on efficient and sustainable use of resources.
What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
The opportunity to interact with our animal collection is an important part, but I also find it exciting and rewarding to be on the lake touring or exploring the forests, wetlands, and other natural areas as part of my job. Finally, having the opportunity to share these experiences with visitors and members, watching as they become excited and develop a love of the natural world, is particularly memorable.
, x 128
Bob Donnelly, Facilities Assistant
Bob is a retired Police Officer who spent most of his work career in the civil service fields. Bob previously served on the Meredith Police Department, New Hampton Police Department, and State of New Hampshire Fire Marshal's Office. For many years as well, Bob was a command officer for his local fire department. He enjoys working outdoors and spends his free time with his wife and three children.
What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
The diverse job duties that arise daily, as well as hearing the “chatta” of the children’s voices as they explore the grounds and animal exhibits.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
On a sunny Saturday in July I could be found out for an early morning run and then my wife and I would be off to a sporting event for one of our children.
, x 137
Brian Eaton, Finance Director

Brian received a B.S. in Accounting from University of Vermont. His past experience includes Controller at Castle Springs/Castle in the Clouds. He has been Finance Director at the Science Center since 2004. Brian volunteers on the Finance Committe of the Association of Nature Center Administrators and is Treasurer of the Sandwich Home Industries board. Brian is active as a coach for various youth sports. He lives in Moultonboro with his wife Lydia and their two daughters.
What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
The people (co-workers, school-kids, and summer guests). People are always the most important part of an organization!
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
If not at a sporting event, I am hopefully found on or near the lake with the family eating barbecue!
, x 144
Clare Eckert, Facilities Assistant

Clare received a B.A. in Greek from Davidson College. She has been involved with Squam Lakes Natural Science Center since the early 1970's when she participated in the Future Naturalists program. She has been an exhibit assistant and an animal care assistant and returned as a part-time Facilities Assistant in 2003.
, x 142
Audrey Eisenhauer, Education Director
Audrey received a B.S. in Wildlife Biology from Humboldt State University in Arcata, California; an M.S. in Natural Resource and Environmental Education from Utah State University in Logan, Utah; and an MEd in Elementary Education from Plymouth State University. She began her career in Environmental Education as an undergraduate student when she discovered she could combine her enjoyment of working with children and her passion for the natural world. Audrey’s previous professional experience includes serving as Program Director at Stokes Nature Center in Logan, Utah, Education Technician for Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Volunteer Coordinator at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, and as Education Director and then Executive Director of the Margret and H.A. Rey Center in Waterville Valley.
What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
Being able to share my passion for the natural world with visitors of all ages. There is nothing better than seeing both a five-year-old and her grandparents enthralled as we watch a mayfly hatch at the pond or seeing the reactions on the faces of a group of school students as they see an owl up close for the first time.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
You would find me hanging out on the lake swimming, paddling, and reading; or out on my road bike; or tromping around in the woods; or at a yoga class; or on an ideal day, doing all of the above.
, x 114
Brenda Erler, Garden and Exhibit Assistant

Brenda received a B.A. in Biology with an Education minor at Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana. Brenda knew she wanted to work at a nature center from the tender age of 10 after visiting the Aullwood Audubon Nature Center in Dayton, Ohio, and attending programs and volunteering throughout high school as a part of the Audubon Teenage Action Council. Brenda's previous experience includes internships at Camp Campbell Gard Environmental Education Center (Hamilton, Ohio), Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center (Yellow Springs, Ohio) and working as a seasonal naturalist for the Ohio State Parks system at Lake Laramie State Park.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
Great mission, great staff, dynamic exhibits, and programs.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
In my garden.
, x 143
Jordan Fitzgerald, Blue Heron School Lead Teacher
Jordan attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington where she obtained a B.A. in Education of Young Children. She also received her Montessori 3 to 6 year old certification from the North American Montessori Center and her Montessori 3 to 6 certification from Northeast Montessori Institute. Jordan has been working in the early childhood education field for 15 years and is an advocate for outdoor education.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
Working with people who are passionate about educating others as well as learning about, and protecting our natural world.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
You would find me at my favorite 'secret' river spot enjoying sun, and some peace and quiet.
, 603-968-7036
Josh Flagg, Naturalist/Animal Ambassador Trainer
Josh graduated from Unity College in Unity, Maine with a degree in Wildlife Care and Education. After graduation he interned for the 2019 summer at the Science Center. He was hired as a Naturalist that fall, with a focus on training raptors. He is excited to continue his career following his passion for working with wildlife.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
Being able to combine my two loves: animal training and environmental education. Also, the opportunity to work with a terrific staff and exciting collection of wildlife.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Going for a long run, a nice swim, and taking my cat for a walk.
Jordy Gianforte, Blue Heron School Lead Teacher
Jordy received her BS in Psychology/Biology and her Masters in Elementary education from SUNY New Paltz in New York. She is also certified to teach K-8 in New Hampshire. She fell in love with Montessori education while working in charter schools and finished her Montessori certificate for Lower Elementary from Seacoast Center Montessori Program and completed her Montessori primary training (3 to 6 year olds) at Northeast Montessori Institute. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast with hobbies including snow boarding, cross country skiing, hang gliding, rock climbing, and scuba diving. She also has a business making hang glider harnesses.
, 603-968-7036
Amanda Gillen, Marketing Manager

What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
The animals! We have an amazing collection of native New Hampshire animals that you don't get to see every day.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
I would be picking cucumbers from the garden, trying to coax my rose plant to produce flowers, cleaning the hen house, or playing frisbee with Penny the Wonder Dog.
, x 134
Margaret Gillespie, Naturalist
Margaret "Tiggy" received a B.S. in Wildlife Management from the University of New Hampshire and M.S. in Environmental Education from Cornell University. She is Canadian and grew up in the Laurentian Mountains north of Montreal. Tiggy was previously Outdoor Education Coordinator for the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests. In 1986, she came to the Science Center where she is a Naturalist. Previously she coordinated New Hampshire Project Learning Tree (a teacher education program) for 11 years. In 2016 the Science Center published a selection of her nature writings in a book entitled, Nearer to Nature.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
The opportunity to teach and learn about the natural world with excellent staff and volunteers.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
I would be teaching outdoors with Science Center wildlife on site or for an outreach around the state.
, x 129
Kady Hoffman, Blue Heron School Assistant Teacher
Kady is completing a degree in Place-Based Education at Plymouth State University with a minor in Adventure Education. She has been pursuing her career in nature-based education with time spent working as an instructor at a nature skills school in New York State and for the Massachusetts Audubon Society. During her time at school, Kady was introduced to the Montessori method. She believes it is a way to teach children which embraces all the joy and wonder that come with childhood. In her spare time, Kady enjoys canoeing on Squam Lake or downhill skiing.
, 603-968-7036
Keith Hosking, Facilities Assistant
Keith received a B.S. in Environmental Biology from Plymouth State University. He has always had a strong interest in natural history and is an avid outdoorsman and especially loves ice fishing.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
The critters!
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
You would probably find me fishing with my wife.
, x 141
Corrie Kinder, Blue Heron School Associate Teacher
Corrie received her Bachelors Degree in Childhood Studies from Plymouth State University. She fell in love with the Montessori Philosophy through her own research and having the opportunity to do an internship at the White Mountain Montessori School. She is completing her Montessori primary training (3 to 6 year olds) at Northeast Montessori Institute. She has a true passion for working with young children and having a positive impact on their life. She really enjoys spending time outside hiking, camping, kayaking, playing soccer, and exploring new things.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
Having the opportunity to work with people that share the same interest as me.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Hiking a 4000-footer somewhere in New Hampshire.
, 603-968-7036
Tom Klein, Facilities Director
Tom was born in the western suburbs of Philadephia and spent summers on Squam Lake since he was four. He earned a BA in Business from New England College in Henniker, NH. He previously worked in banking and information technology in addition to Operations Manager for the Science Center. He shares a home in Sandwich with his partner and their three dogs.
What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
What I like best is the team spirit among the staff, all for one and one for all!
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
One of the reasons I moved here was to be able to spend more time on the lakes so you would always find me any sunny Saturday in the summer one of our boats in the middle of Squam Lake or Lake Winnepesaukee!
, x 121
Iain MacLeod, Executive Director
Iain started his career in his native Scotland where he worked for several years for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Iain joined the Science Center in 2006 after 18-years with New Hampshire Audubon where he oversaw all of their statewide education outreach efforts. Iain is a respected bird researcher and ornithologist, focusing primarily on Ospreys. He is on the editorial board of New Hampshire Bird Records – a quarterly publication of New Hampshire bird sightings and trends. He is also a member of the New Hampshire Rare Birds Committee. He was the past board chair of the Hawk Migration Association of North America and currently serves on the board of the Association of Nature Center Administrators.
What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
Hearing happy children and contented parents on the trail or that shared intake of breath as one of our program animals is presented in a program.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
I am here at the Science Center, but on a Sunday in July I will be tucked into the shore of a beaver pond somewhere in the Lakes Region studying an osprey nest; observing their behavior, and counting the number of chicks as part of my 18+ year study of the area’s osprey population.
, x 123
Laura Mammarelli, Blue Heron School Director

What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
It is impossible to choose the best part: the people here are wonderful, I enjoy the variety of environments-forest, pine grove, stream, and pond -and it is amazing to meet the variety of animals that live here.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
I would be out on my bike or in my kayak on a local lake.
, 603-968-7036
Alyssa Mika, Animal Care Associate

, x 117
Lauren Moulis, Animal Care Manager

What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
The natural setting around us, as well as working one on one with all the animals.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
At work.
, x 138
Mary Noyes, Administrative Assistant
, x 111
Dylan Parker, Blue Heron School Assistant Teacher

Jeremy Phillips, Naturalist

What’s the best part about working at the Science Center?
Seeing the smiling faces and taking inquiring questions from our guests as they see our natural world in a new way.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Playing disc golf, or hopping on rocks in the streams, or rolling logs in the woods.
, x 118
Carol Raymond, Volunteer Manager
Carol received her B.A. from Norwich University. She had a 30-year career in the book retail and wholesale business before joining the Science Center's staff. The main focus of Carol's work is with people – volunteers!
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
For me, people are the best part, staff, visitors, and volunteers.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Digging in the garden or on the beach with a good book.
, x 122
Janet Robertson, Development and Communications Director

What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
Working with so many wonderful, inspirational people – staff, trustees, volunteers, members, and donors.
Where could we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Outside. There are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors in New Hampshire; sometimes it's hard to choose from the things I like to do such as hiking, bicycling, canoeing, gardening, or just reading a book.
, x 112
Liz Rowe, Interim HR Director

Kevin VanGorden, Lead Animal Care Associate
Kevin began at the Science Center in 2010 as a volunteer before returning in 2012 as a Program Intern. Kevin graduated from the University of Maine at Machias with a B.A. in Biology. He received his Teaching Certificate in Environmental Education through Hamline University. Kevin has had the opportunity to work around the country in many different Nature Centers and Residential Environmental Learning Centers; working as an intern at International Exotic Animal Sanctuary (Boyd, TX) , a U.S. Forest Service Apprentice Naturalist at The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (KY/TN), Fellowship Naturalist at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center ( Lanesboro, MN) and a Teacher Naturalist at N.E.E.D. Academy ( Truro, MA).
What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
Great Staff, amazing animals, and the feeling of making a difference. I've had the opportunity to be a visitor, volunteer, Intern, and Employee at the Science Center and I can honestly say that of all the places I've worked, this place just feels like home.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Working on my latest project, practicing the martial arts, preparing for Soccer season, or playing board games with friends.
, x 17
Aubrey Voelker, Animal Care Training and Enrichment Coordinator
Aubrey graduated with a B.S. in Zoology and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She grew up always being in the outdoors and with a passion for animals.She interned at the Science Center during the summer of 2013. While in school she volunteered as an education docent at the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin and was an Education Intern for the Madison Audubon Society. She volunteered as a Penguin and Seabird Rehabilitator at SANCCOB in Cape Town, South Africa during the summer of 2014 and also interned at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida during the summer of 2015.
What is the best part about working at the Science Center?
Getting to work with the animals and awesome staff. It’s great going to a job I love every day and feel like I’m making a difference, makes it feel less like work.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
Either at work or exploring a new hiking trail.
, x 117
Sarah Wall, Visitor Services Manager

Sarah received a B.S. in Environmental Science from Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. She grew up in rural Virginia exploring the eastern hardwood forest developing a love for plants. Sarah’s non-profit career began at NH Audubon where she held various roles, all of which focused on customer service, retail management and special events. After spending 10 years with NH Audubon she found her way to the Science Center.
What's the best part about working at the Science Center?
I love the mission, I work with a great team, and the location is beautiful.
Where would we find you on a sunny Saturday in July?
In the morning, I would try to sneak a run in. Then I can be found harvesting herbs and working in my gardens with my husband and son. There is also a good chance I could be found cooling off at a local lake.
.org, x 147