Board of Directors
STEVE BAKER
Steve became involved with River-Lab in 2010. Since that time, he has been guiding trips, serving as a model leader and guide trainer. Steve is a long-time resident of Fairfield and has also served as PTA president of Roger Sherman Elementary School, Roger Ludlowe Middle School, Ludlowe High School and the PTA Council.
KIERSTEN CHOU
Kiersten is a science educator and curriculum specialist with a focus on climate and sustainability. Kiersten grew up in Shelton, but spent many hours out on the sound with her late grandfather, an avid fisherman and former Southport Harbormaster. After time living in California and New York City, Kiersten moved to Fairfield in 2013. She is also a member of the Sustainable Fairfield Task Force and a co-organizer of the Fairfield/Southport CSA.
JON DILLEY
Jon has always been supportive of environmental causes, especially those related to clean water. After studying environmental law at Quinnipiac University School of Law and interning at the Connecticut Fund for the Environment, he was excited to be able to focus his interests locally when he began guiding in 2010 at Osborn Hill Elementary. Jon is also a Board Member for the Wonderland Wizards Youth Hockey Association and is an active volunteer with Junior Achievement and the Fairfield Recreation Department. Jon became the current President of Mill River Wetland Committee in April 2020.
MARY HOGUE
Mary is a dedicated environmentalist who has qualified as a Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, Master Composter, CT NOFA Organic Landcare Professional and Climate Reality Leader. This explains, no doubt, her masterful effort for many years working on MRWC’s former fundraising event, Garden Expo. She is co-chair of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, co-president of Fairfielders Protecting Land and Neighborhoods (FairPLAN), chair of the Fairfield Forestry committee and a member of the Sustainable Fairfield Task Force. She was recognized as Fairfielder of the Year in 2018 and the Aquarion Volunteer of the year in 2019 due to her extensive work related to sustainability and the stewardship of the environment.
REINI KNORR
Reini assists international and domestic transferees relocating to Fairfield County, having herself relocated from Siegen, Germany by way of Chicago and London. Reini has served as a Guide, Model Leader, School Captain, Curriculum Team Member, and currently a board member responsible for social media. In addition she is involved in the Fairfield Schools PTAs, Fairfield Cares Community Coalition, and her local parish.
MINDY POWLISHEN
Since becoming a resident of Fairfield in 1991, Mindy has enjoyed the natural spaces around Fairfield, as well as other areas in New England, including multiple climbs of Mt. Washington. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, she previously served as Room Parent and Treasurer for Our Lady of the Assumption Home School Association and is currently employed at a local women-owned small business. Mindy has been a parent volunteer for River-Lab and currently maintains the office of Treasurer.
LYNN SHAVINSKY
Lynn has served MRWC in all capacities: starting as a River-Lab Guide, through Program Advisor and as a board member since 2015; serving as President from 2016-2020. She has helped MRWC and the River-Lab Program utilize more current technology for training, outreach and communication.
--Our Founder--
JOY SHAW
As the founder of the Mill River Wetland Committee and author, leader, and illustrator of the River-Lab Program, Joy has been the mainstay of this organization since its beginning. She continues to share her historic Perry’s Mill home on the Mill River with MRWC for various functions. She offers her expertise as needed, with editing, advising on trail learning activities, and especially regarding issues related to the health and/or protection of the river.