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Meet Our
Board of Directors
Michael Mascarella
Treasurer | Fundraising & Finance Committee Chair
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.
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Sangeetha Kondakindi
Governance Committee Chair
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.
Lyle van Tonder
Digital Marketing Strategist | Web Developer
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 a performance marketing specialist, 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.
Tina Le
Board Clerk
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!
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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 finances were plaguing most families that come from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Wanting to make a difference in his community Robert decided to study financial services 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 personal and business development 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.
Olivia Gosselin
Fundraising & Grants Manager
Olivia believes everyone deserves meaningful access to nature. She brings several years of experience bridging tech and outdoor recreation, along with a Master’s in Outdoor Recreation Economy from CU Boulder, where she studied resilient communities and sustainable outdoor leadership. Having worked and volunteered with nonprofits across the Bay Area and beyond, she’s excited to help strengthen Saved By Nature’s impact through thoughtful fundraising and grantmaking.
Richard Tejeda
Founder & Executive Director
Richard Tejeda is uniquely equipped to address the issue of equitable access to nature, combining professional expertise, academic achievements, and lived experiences. With over 16 years of experience in environmental education and outreach, Richard has worked with diverse populations, including underserved communities and at-promise-youth. His leadership roles with organizations such as California State Parks, Santa Clara County Parks, and Guadalupe River Park Conservancy have allowed him to create inclusive programs that connect individuals to the restorative benefits of nature. Richard’s academic background further strengthens his qualifications. He holds an A.S. in Park Management from West Valley College and graduated Cum Laude with a B.A. in Environmental Studies and a minor in Sustainable Water Resources from San Jose State University. His education has provided him with the tools to integrate environmental stewardship and conservation principles into Saved By Nature’s initiatives. What sets Richard apart is his deeply personal connection to the cause. Growing up in a socially disadvantaged neighborhood, he witnessed the transformative power of nature firsthand. Richard became the first person in Santa Clara County to be recognized by the Superior Court for using nature to earn his Certificate of Rehabilitation. This experience profoundly shaped his mission to create equitable access to the outdoors, inspiring others to overcome personal challenges and reconnect with nature. Under Richard’s guidance, Saved By Nature has developed programs that remove barriers such as transportation and accessibility, empowering marginalized communities to experience the mental, physical, and emotional healing nature provides. His work has earned accolades, including the 2020 Environmentalist of the Year award by the Santa Clara County League of Conservation Voters and the 2022 Community Hero Award from Bay Nature Magazine, highlighting his impact. Together, Richard’s expertise, education, and personal resilience position him and Saved By Nature to lead meaningful change.
Alex Reyes
President
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
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.
Gilberto Rodriguez
Fundraising & Finance Committee Secretary
Gilberto Rodriguez is the founder of Gillybert, a boutique global research and consulting firm serving clients across the United States, Latin America, Africa, and the Pacific. For over a decade, he has supported public, private, and social-impact organizations with clear analysis and practical strategy to navigate complex markets, strengthen operations, and make informed decisions. His work focuses on research, cross-border strategy, economic development, and institutional planning. He holds a Master of Science in International Business and a Bachelor of Science in Business, along with certifications in commercial banking, financial management for development professionals, and financial inclusion. He also serves on the board of a youth-focused nonprofit and volunteers as a mentor, reflecting his commitment to responsible growth and community impact.
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
Michael Mascarella
Chair | Treasurer
Olivia Gosselin
Fundraising & Grants Manager
Gilberto Rodriguez
Secretary
Lyle van Tonder
Digital Marketing Strategist
Tina Le
Clerk | Agenda Distribution
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
Alex Reyes
President | Governance Support
Dayo Sobitan
Vice President | Bylaws & Ethics
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Sangeetha Kondakindi
Chair | Communications
Robert Avila
Governance Support
Tina Le
Clerk | Agenda Distribution
Join the Board
Member Responsabilities
📅 The Board meets twelve times a year, holds planning sessions as agreed, and serves without compensation.
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. 📅 Newly elected board members (who have not previously served) will begin with an initial one-year term. ♻️ Following the one-year term, board members may serve additional three-year terms upon re-election.
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.
How 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.