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Our Board of Directors
Active Board Members
Alex Reyes
President, Board Member
On Mar 30 Gov Gavin Newsom appointed Alex Reyes to sit on the California State Council on Developmental Disabilities proudly representing the SF Bay Area region he has Cerebral Palsy (CP) but despite his disability he lives his life to the fullest If you want more info visit www.scdd.ca.gov also on Facebook Twitter Instagram @Calscdd In his spare time he love to travel hangout with his friends attend a sports event and play music to destress Alex Reyes is the proud owner of DJ Alex Reyes Entertainment based in Fremont he offers Mobile DJ Sound Reinforcement and Uplight services since Jan 1 2001 If you want more info visit www.djalexreyes.com also on Facebook Twitter Instagram @djalexreyes #djalexreyes
Dayo Sobitan
Vice President, Board Member
Dayo Sobitan, originally from Africa and now residing in Canada, brings a dynamic and globally informed leadership perspective and a strong commitment to ethical governance to the Saved By Nature Board. He currently serves as Managing Director and CEO of Geogrid Energy, with an extensive background in business strategy, management consulting, and cross-sector leadership. Over the past two decades, Dayo has held executive roles across industries including engineering, renewable energy, trade, and nonprofit governance. He is a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) and a Member of the Institute of Directors (MIOD), widely respected for his expertise in financial stewardship, collaborative leadership, and board development. As part of his early contributions, Dayo is working closely with the Executive Director and a volunteer scenario planner to co-develop a refreshed Board Member Onboarding and Role Clarity Program—a key step in strengthening team alignment and capacity. His thoughtful approach and global insight will be instrumental as Saved By Nature launches its first major fundraising campaign.
Elvina McCauley
Secretary, Board Member
Elvina McCauley is a seasoned finance and operations leader with over two decades of experience guiding companies through growth, audits, and strategic transitions. A Chartered Accountant from Australia, she began her career at KPMG before moving into the startup space in California, where she served as CFO of Tastemade and led its successful acquisition by Wonder Group. Today, Elvina is the Founder of Venterra Growth, a strategic finance and accounting advisory firm supporting climate startups, regenerative ventures, and nonprofits advancing a more abundant future. She specializes in outsourced accounting, fractional CFO services, and capital strategy, helping mission-driven organizations build clarity, resilience, and impact. But Elvina’s connection to Saved By Nature runs deeper than numbers. Raised on a 50-acre farm in Australia and shaped by time spent in the Swiss Alps, she carries a lifelong love for open spaces, fresh air, and the healing power of nature. Since moving to California, she’s been inspired by the accessibility of national parks, deserts, oceans, and trails, and deeply believes in the importance of helping people from all walks of life experience and protect these public treasures. As Board Secretary, Elvina brings not only financial rigor but also a heartfelt commitment to Saved By Nature’s mission. She has completed an AICPA program focused on nonprofit finance, and sees this role as a meaningful opportunity to contribute her skills while continuing to learn and grow within a community she deeply admires.
Michael Mascarella
Treasurer, Fundraising & Finance Committee Chair, Board Member
Michael is a rising force in nonprofit finance, bringing precision, heart, and a deep belief in equity to his role on the Saved By Nature Board of Directors. With a B.S. in Business Management and Marketing from St. John’s University and a recent certification in Accounting, he’s committed to ensuring every grant and donation is stewarded with care and transparency. As an Accounting Trainee, Michael supports Saved By Nature’s financial operations with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for impact. He’s currently deepening his expertise in nonprofit accounting, helping the organization grow sustainably while staying true to its mission of healing through nature. Michael is also the co-founder of Brazuca LLC, a lifestyle e-commerce brand that celebrates cultural vibrancy and connection. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to inclusion make him a powerful advocate for environmental justice, believing that nature belongs to everyone, regardless of background, orientation, or income. Whether reviewing budgets or hiking trails, Michael brings warmth, integrity, and a belief in nature’s power to restore and unite. We’re honored to have his voice and vision on our board.
Lyle van Tonder
Performance Marketing Manager, Board Member
Lyle van joined Saved By Nature's Board in June 2025, bringing his expertise in digital marketing and analytics to support the organization's mission of connecting underrepresented communities with the healing power of nature. As Performance Marketing Manager, Lyle focuses on building data-driven strategies that maximize SBN's digital reach and measurable impact. Since July 2025, he has led comprehensive digital transformation initiatives that generated a 47.96% increase in organic visibility while significantly improving user engagement metrics including increased session duration (+35.6%) and enhanced pages per session (+2.02%). Lyle's strategic approach combines website optimization that secured first-page Google rankings with sophisticated email marketing campaigns designed using donor psychology principles and systematic A/B testing methodologies. His integrated digital strategy has enhanced SBN's fundraising effectiveness while positioning the organization's programs to reach communities who would benefit from outdoor experiences but may not yet know the organization exists. Beyond technical implementation, Lyle's work focuses on strategic audience development through keyword mapping and content optimization that connects SBN with families seeking nature-based healing, seniors looking for wellness activities, and youth organizations serving at-promise communities. His cross-platform performance analysis using Google Search Console, SEMrush, and TWIPLA ensures data-driven optimization across all digital touchpoints. Lyle is deeply committed to environmental justice and believes that well-executed, data-informed marketing can extend a nonprofit's reach far beyond traditional outreach methods. As a Google-certified specialist, he provides monthly strategic reports to the board on digital performance and growth opportunities.
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Sangeetha Kondakindi
Governance Committee Chair, Board Member
Sangeetha is a Business Analyst with a strong passion for using data to create meaningful impact. She specializes in transforming complex information into clear, actionable insights that support smarter decision-making, stronger governance, and sustainable growth. She holds a Master’s in Business Analytics from the University of Massachusetts Boston and a Bachelor’s in Management Accounting from GITAM University. Throughout her career, she has learned that effective analysis goes beyond numbers, it requires understanding people, purpose, and the story behind the data. At Saved By Nature, Sangeetha serves as Chair of the Governance Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee. In these roles, she helps strengthen board accountability, promote ethical governance, and enhance financial oversight through data-informed strategies. Collaborating with the leadership team has been a rewarding experience, and she is proud to contribute to an organization that connects people with nature and advances environmental education. Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Sangeetha is deeply interested in how analytics can support social and environmental justice. She enjoys building systems that make information more accessible and helping organizations use data to drive transparency, equity, and long-term sustainability.
Tina Le
Board Clerk, Board Member
Tina Le is a student at San Jose State University, pursuing a degree in Marketing with a minor in Asian American Studies. Deeply community-focused, she believes that reconnecting with nature can help people slow down, nurture compassion, and organize collective action for positive change. Her passion for environmental stewardship began with her involvement in not-for-profit organizations. Previously, she served as secretary of her middle college’s biology club, hosting events to educate students and raise awareness about sustainable practices. She also co-founded a youth-led nonprofit which frequently supported environmental causes. These experiences grounded her belief that small, local actions can create meaningful global impact. Nowadays, managing her own e-commerce store has further heightened her commitment to conservation and mindful living. As the board secretary for Saved By Nature, she is passionate about leveraging her skills in communications and organization, as well as her unique contributions as a youth to support the nonprofit’s mission of creating inclusive spaces where people and nature thrive together! Outside of her work and studies, Tina enjoys hiking, volunteering, and sculpting clay!
Michelle Spreadbury
Board Member
Mimi is a Human Resources professional residing in Santa Clara County. She has also been an educator, a senior trainer, and a compliance manager. Recently, she obtained her HR Management Certificate at UC Santa Cruz extension where she completed coursework in Teamwork, Inclusivity, and Legal Analysis. Additionally, she has obtained HR certificate coursework in Sustainability and Artificial Intelligence. As a lead organizer in Sustainability and AI, she presents regularly on these topics to local and state organizations. She has worked on international campaigns in Human Rights and Sustainability, on a local to an international level with Amnesty International, Solar Rights Alliance, Fridays for Future, and other organizations. Mimi was raised in New England and has taken part in outdoor activities as well as litter cleanups since a young age. Mimi received her B.A. from Wheaton College, MA. She completed her junior year in France with Hamilton College in France in the French language at Paris Universities, receiving top marks. She finished her studies at Wheaton, majoring in Art History, with minors in French and International Economics. Mimi had the top graded thesis of her class which was published in the Uk. Her professional experiences range from being a legal editor, shutting down and restarting regional networks during, as well as after Hurricane Sandy, to being a Docent at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. The mission of Saved By Nature speaks deeply to Mimi with her continued organizing in healing, sustainability, justice and accessibility. Mimi moved to Santa Clara county just over twenty years ago from France: she is fluent in French and is currently studying Spanish. She continues her on-going education as well as her sharing of nature, sustainability, justice, and accessibility within her communities.
Robert Avila
Board Member
Robert Avila began his career in real estate, helping low-income communities of color refinance or purchase their homes. Through time Robert realized that historical injustices including home inheritance, financial savings and credit scores were plaguing most families that come from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Wanting to make a difference in his community Robert decided to study credit repair as a protégé. He would eventually start his own company with a goal of helping low-income communities of color raise their credit score through financial planning and literacy. Robert says, “I want to help people raise their credit scores so they could get a better interest rate, lower payment, and have a better chance at affording and keeping their home long term.” It has been a successful journey of giving back as Robert had to also work his way from financial turmoil, he now owns multiple investment properties. His customer-first focus and passion for helping people to improve their existing financial standing and credit score. Robert is a respected professional who oversees Restore and Hope, an established credit restoration agency with years of experience working in the industry that has an office in Campbell, California. You can fully trust he’ll get you back on track. Many can vouch through the years including military veterans, dentists, teachers, and many others from all walks of life.
Sarah Miller
Board Member
Miller is an ecological steward based in South Santa Clara County, whose work is rooted in environmental and social justice. With a focus on California native plant communities, permaculture design, and whole-systems land stewardship, Miller blends technical expertise with heartfelt care. Their mission centers on healing the land, uplifting marginalized voices, and fostering inclusive community through ecological connection. As a Fellow with the California Climate Action Corps, Miller deepens their impact through collaborative climate solutions and community-based action. Their initiatives span rainwater harvesting, bioswale design, herbal remedies, natural building, edible landscaping, fire mimicry, tree health, agroforestry, and urban greening. Miller also contributes to the Coyote Valley Agroecology Coalition, a regenerative farm project that models sustainable agriculture, community resilience, and ecological restoration in one of the region’s most vital wildlife corridors. Miller envisions a future that is free, peaceful, connected, and ecologically just. Their leadership is grounded in humility, curiosity, and a fierce dedication to justice for the earth and for all who call it home. In a time of climate crisis and social fragmentation, Miller stands as a bridge between generations, disciplines, the human heart, and the natural world.
Ekam Dot
Board Member
Ekam is a passionate youth leader and changemaker with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, social justice, and community empowerment. As the founder of the second-ever climate science club in California, he has mobilized peers around climate awareness and action. He placed 20th out of 50,000 participants in the Climate Science Olympiad, demonstrating both depth of knowledge and global perspective. Ekam's dedication to civic engagement is evident through his involvement with the ACLU in efforts to clean California streets and his selection as one of eight local ambassadors for Teach Her, where he helped raise funds for the education of orphaned girls in India. Beyond advocacy, Ekam has shown a deep compassion for others, tutoring refugee students across the U.S. for over a year and a half, supporting a Sikh Temple's fundraising campaigns, and caring for a school garden to foster early environmental learning. His work ethic is reflected in his summer volunteer stint at a local waterpark front desk, clocking in three hours every weekday. With every endeavor, Ekam continues to build bridges between science, service, and storytelling to uplift the communities he serves.
Former Board Members
Pamela Campos
Former Vice President & Board Member
Pamela Campos is a Bay Area native, proudly born and raised in San José, CA. She is a second-generation immigrant whose family developed roots in the South Bay. Working as an educator for over a decade, Pamela specializes in policy and advocacy that ensures the needs of children, seniors, and women are included in community development projects. She is a dedicated leader who places the needs of young children, their families, and underrepresented marginalized BIPOC communities at the forefront of her vision towards an equitable future. Pamela holds a B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development from SJSU and currently serves as Chair of the Policy Advisory Council for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.
Roger Castillo
Former Treasurer & Board Member
Roger Castillo is a lifelong citizen naturalist who grew up in San Jose and has spent more than 30 years exploring the region’s rivers and creeks. As a dedicated “river guardian,” he carefully observes and documents changes in the Guadalupe River and other local waterways that flow into the San Francisco Bay estuary. His deep familiarity with these ecosystems has made him a respected voice in environmental stewardship throughout the South Bay. Roger is best known for his remarkable discovery of “Lupe,” the remains of a young Columbian mammoth that lived approximately 60,000 years ago. He found the first bone in 2005 while on a nature walk along the Guadalupe River with his dog Jenna, a moment that quickly grew into one of the region’s most significant paleontological finds. A passionate advocate for wildlife and environmental protection, Roger founded the Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Group, an organization dedicated to “Restoration through Education.” He also served on the Board of Directors for the Guadalupe–Coyote Resource Conservation District (GCRCD), originally appointed by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors in 1999. Although his most recent term concluded in 2018, he continues to support the District’s mission as a Director Emeritus. Roger’s work and the story of Lupe the Mammoth have been highlighted through various public exhibits and media features, including displays at the Children’s Discovery Museum and coverage by the San Jose Mercury News.
Fundraising & Finance Committee
This committee is responsible for overseeing Saved By Nature’s financial health and fundraising strategy, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and annual goals.
Richard Tejeda
Founder & Executive Director, Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Michael Mascarella
Chair - Fundraising & Finance Committee
Gilberto Rodriguez
Secretary - Fundraising & Finance Committee
Lyle van Tonder
Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Sangeetha Kondakindi
Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Robert Avila
Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Michelle Spreadbury
Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Ekam Dot
Fundraising & Finance Committee Member
Governance & Advisory Committee
The Governance & Advisory Committee is responsible for strengthening Saved By Nature’s leadership through board development, accountability, and ethical practices. This committee ensures that the organization’s governance structures remain transparent, inclusive, and aligned with its mission.
Richard Tejeda
Founder & Executive Director, Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Sangeetha Kondakindi
Chair - Governance & Advisory Committee
Ayan Saini
Secretary - Governance & Advisory Committee
Alex Reyes
Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Dayo Sobitan
Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Elvina McCauley
Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Michelle Spreadbury
Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Sarah Miller
Governance & Advisory Committee Member
Join the Board
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNOUNCEMENT
Background:
Saved By Nature (SBN) is a volunteer-driven charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to inspire people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities to explore the natural wonders and recreational opportunities of the outdoors through transformative environmental education. We collaborate with partners to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual healing in nature.
Director Responsibilities:
The Board meets twelve times a year, holds planning sessions as agreed, and serves without compensation.
Board Membership Requirements & Term Limits:
Each member of the Board of Directors must be a formal member of the Corporation, maintaining annual membership dues of $100 paid in full by March 15th or through monthly payments by the 15th of each month.
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Newly elected board members (who have not previously served) will begin with an initial one-year term.
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Following the one-year term, board members may serve additional three-year terms upon re-election.
Board Member Responsibilities & Expectations:
Board members play a critical role in shaping the vision, strategy, and sustainability of Saved By Nature. They actively champion the organization’s mission, ensuring it remains strong, purpose-driven, and committed to expanding equitable access to nature.
✅ Leadership & Strategic Guidance – Providing oversight to ensure organizational success.
✅ Executive Director Support – Assisting in the implementation of programs and initiatives.
✅ Community Representation & Advocacy – Promoting Saved By Nature’s mission and fostering inclusive outreach.
✅ Fundraising & Resource Development – Supporting financial sustainability through membership dues, securing donations, and sponsorships.
✅ Financial & Ethical Oversight – Protecting assets, ensuring responsible fiscal management, and upholding legal integrity.
✅ Program Evaluation & Growth – Monitoring progress, strengthening initiatives, and expanding community impact.
✅ Board Participation – Attending at least 9 out of 12 monthly meetings, engaging in meaningful discussions, and joining the annual board retreat.
✅ Professional Conduct & Volunteerism – Representing Saved By Nature with enthusiasm while dedicating ample volunteer time to contribute productively.
Board decisions and elections will be determined by a three-fourth vote, ensuring a thoughtful and democratic process in leadership transitions.
Qualifications:
Saved By Nature seeks board members with at least two years of experience in a leadership role within business, government, environmental advocacy, or the nonprofit sector. Additional qualifications include:
✅ Minimum of two years of prior board service experience (required).
✅ Expertise in financial oversight, fundraising, program planning, or communications.
✅ Commitment to Saved By Nature’s mission of making nature accessible to all.
✅ Ability to contribute time, expertise, and resources to support organizational success.
To Apply:
Interested candidates should email a Board Member Application to:
📩 Richard Tejeda, Executive Director
📧 richard@savedbynature.org
Candidates will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and those who successfully meet our board criteria will be invited to join.