The Sustainable Connections Team

We are the music makers, we are the dreamers of dreams.

Derek Long

(he/him/his)

Executive Director
Connector, family man, thought-leader, runner, visionary
360.647.7093 x 101
derek@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Derek

Derek has a long record of entrepreneurism and program development in government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors. He co-founded Sustainable Connections in 2002 and became Executive Director of Cloud Mountain Farm Center prior to an anticipated merger with Sustainable Connections at the end of 2018. Derek was also the first co-National Coordinator of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) in 2002. He is deeply committed to creating a community that works well for all people, and believes our region is rich with the potential to do so.

Before his foray into the nonprofit world, he co-founded Viatru, an online Fair-Trade retail service, and also worked with the Federal Reserve Bank. Derek attended the University of Toledo, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with Honors. He has served on the boards of the Washington Business Alliance, Waterfront Advisory Group, Countywide Affordable Housing Task Force, Community Food Co-op, and Cloud Mountain Farm Center.

Delaney Skordal

(she/her/hers)

Development Director
Planner, bookworm, detailed, curious, aspiring bird nerd
360.647.7093 x 121
delaneys@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Delaney

With over ten years of experience working in non-profit and government sectors, Delaney is eager to identify strategies to best garner support for Sustainable Connections’ programs. Delaney has a B.A. in Art History from Lewis & Clark College, an M.A. in English Education, and is a veritable word nerd who loves reading, writing, and crossword puzzles. Delaney’s background includes advising students as a vocational counselor, teaching ski lessons at Mt. Baker, managing a workforce training program for low-income individuals, and fighting fires in the woods of Colorado. As someone who grew up in a tight-knit community in the PNW, Delaney values the sense of belonging and connectedness that communities foster and is honored to work for a non-profit that places inclusion, collaboration, and community at its center.

Jenna Deane

(she/her/hers)

Program Director
Outside adventures, family and friends, growing vegetables
360.647.7093 x 108
jennad@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Jenna

Jenna has spent over a decade in the field of environmental education and brings a passion for supporting climate change solutions and community resilience. From sharing tide pools and redwood trees with fifth graders, investigating science topics in the garden with elementary students, to providing experiential workshops on teaching climate change to local teachers, she believes that people are most likely to take action about things they feel a connection to. She’s excited to be a part of the Toward Zero Waste Program because along with reducing and diverting waste from the landfill she gets to support the Food Recovery Program and help connect good food to those who need it.

Jenna has a B.A in Environmental Education from Western Washington University and has worked in residential outdoor education, school gardens, and for environmental education non-profits. She loves spending time outdoors and fills her free time gardening, running or hiking local trails, or in the bay paddling an outrigger canoe.

Melissa Daniels

(she/her/hers)

Administrative Manager
Puzzle solver, bike rider, ice breaker, mood maker

360.647.7093 x 104
melissad@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Melissa

Melissa’s career journey, driven by her passion for community building, has taken her across the landscapes of Colorado, New Jersey, Virginia, and Illinois. With a diverse background spanning data management, volunteer coordination, partner engagement, natural resource management, and ecology, she has spent time in small nonprofits and state and federal government agencies. In her free time, Melissa finds joy in skiing, cycling, hiking, sewing, and board games, each activity complementing her commitment to connection through shared delight.

Matt Pelan

(he/him/his)

Finance & Grants Manager
Wanderer, baker, biker, number cruncher

360.647.7093 x 107
mattp@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Matt

Growing up in a small town in the Midwest, Matt developed a strong appreciation for community values and local economies. After earning a degree in Accounting from the University of Iowa, he moved to Denver, where he worked with independent restaurants and a local non-profit focused on strengthening the local food economy. Over the years, Matt has worked in a variety of industries but has always been drawn back to working for and supporting local businesses based around food, combining his passion for community impact with his expertise in accounting and financial management.

In 2022, Matt relocated to Bellingham after falling in love with the region’s natural landscape and extensive mountain biking trails. Outside of work, he enjoys baking, biking, and the occasional 20-hour road trip to have coffee with friends.

Kaela Joslyn

(she/her/hers)

Bookkeeping Extraordinaire
Detail-oriented, data-driven, collaborative, empathetic, stoked to be here

360.647.7093
kaelaj@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Kaela

Kaela earned her B.A. in English from the University of Denver. She soon got distracted from writing by her love of business, accounting, and working with people. Kaela owned her own Whatcom County small business for 10 years and bookkeeps for a variety of industries in Whatcom County. She has found joy in managing companies, managing people, and safeguarding client funds. Kaela is stoked to bring her 21 years of bookkeeping experience to Sustainable Connections. Outside of work, Kaela enjoys experiencing the world with her family and sharing literature with her son.

Suzi Tanski

(she/her/hers)

Communications & Development Manager
Creator, conversationalist, strategic thinker, explorer

360.647.7093 x 105
suzit@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Suzi

Suzi relocated to the lower 48 from Fairbanks, Alaska, driven by the desire to play in the mountains without the -40° temperatures. Given her outgoing nature, it’s no surprise she holds a B.S. in Public Communication and a B.A. in Public Affairs. With a career spanning higher education and the nonprofit sector, Suzi has always enjoyed working with organizations that give back to their communities.

A lover of nature, Suzi enjoys everything from through-hiking to ice climbing and skiing. You’ll find her in the mountains or exploring her community with her raccoon-hound, Java—don’t hesitate to say hi if you spot them out and about (Suzi loves sharing her tales of life in Fairbanks, Alaska)!

Annika Sampson

(she/her/hers)

Communications Coordinator
Storyteller, adventurer, curious, creative, islander, local food hypewoman

360.647.7093 x 116
annikas@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Annika

Annika came to Sustainable Connections in 2021 with a deep love of community, food, justice, and sustainability. She gathered these interests as a student at Macalester College, an educator with nonprofits and public schools, a Fulbright Scholar in India, and an engaged public citizen in Bellingham. Annika is excited to facilitate meaningful connections that inspire people to create positive change not just in their lives, but in the lives of those around them. Outside of work, she spends her time hiking, biking, cooking, and reading.

Clara Colton Symmes

(she/her/hers)

Events & Marketing Coordinator
List-maker, magnetic poetry enthusiast, karaoke singer, snacker, trip planner

360-647-7093 x102
claracs@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Clara

Born and raised in New Hampshire, Clara’s drive to connect has taken her to non-profits in South Africa and Sri Lanka, abandoned fishing towns in Newfoundland, and across the Atlantic on a cargo ship!

She graduated from Goucher College in 2019, inspired to motivate environmental stewardship through community and storytelling. Shortly after relocating to Washington in 2020, Clara began working on public relations efforts for water research projects across the Global South. Eager to connect more with the PNW, she refocused on sustainability efforts closer to home.

If you were looking for Clara at a party, you would probably find her next to the recycling bins, asking friends to dispose of their waste properly, so she is so excited to be a part of Sustainable Connections as an Events Coordinator!

Molly Bressers

(she/her/hers)

Membership & Think Local First Program Manager
Water woman, optimizer, loves to laugh, organized, determined

360.647.7093 x 110
mollyb@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Molly

Born and raised in Bellingham, Molly grew up alongside her mom’s family-run restaurant, and earned her sustainability chops through a Masters of Urban Studies in Sustainable Development, and subsequent professional roles at Portland State University. A systems-thinker, Molly loves process improvement and making connections between people to increase collaboration and maximize our collective potential. She knows that local businesses are an integral part of a thriving, sustainable community, and is passionate about supporting businesses while also promoting actions that honor and respect all members of our shared ecosystem. Molly joined the Sustainable Connections team in 2022. Outside of work, Molly loves being on the water in her kayak, bird-watching, family bike rides, yoga, and enjoying good, local food. (Ella habla español.)

Scott Pelton

(he/him/his)

Housing & Smart Growth Manager
Energetic, pioneer, systems, dynamic, community-builder

360.303.1430 (text welcome)
scottp@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Scott

Scott was born and raised in the PNW and has lived in Bellingham since the late 1990s. He considers Bellingham to be magical and loves building community here. He received his MA in Political Science from WWU, where he learned that politics were his first love. He wants to use it to build a stronger, more engaged and vibrant community.

He has managed local political campaigns; sat on the boards of some of your favorite local nonprofits; worked at prominent local businesses; co-founded a popular local business. He has developed a deep understanding of what and who makes Bellingham tick and what we need to support its growth.

He spent a few years working remotely in the corporate and startup world, leading national and international sales teams, with a brief foray in the global tech-mobility industry. He then chose work that put him back in touch with his community and was reminded how good it felt to build something of value.

Maressa Valliant

(she/her/hers)

Eat Local First Director
Details, connector, resourceful, nurturing, dance & music, kind

360.647.7093 x 103
maressa@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Maressa

Maressa has a wide range of marketing experience, garnered from working with all kinds of organizations from small family businesses to high volume retail outlets. With over ten years in graphic design, website development, and communications she is a wealth of knowledge. She’s also passionate about creating a sustainable food system, and educating people — especially children — about how to find, prepare, eat, and enjoy fresh local food! She has held a variety of roles for both nonprofits and private entities, managed retail stores, and previously helped a manufacturing company excel as its Director of Marketing. She has volunteered with the University of Washington Autism Center, and multiple community based organizations. Spend a few hours with Maressa, and you will be sure to notice a deep love for Bellingham and the Pacific Northwest.

Jessica Gillis

(she/her/hers)

Food & Farming Program Manager

360.647.7093 x 115
jessicag@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Jessica

Jessica has been involved with Sustainable Connections since its inception. As a business member and supporter through her business Ciao Thyme, she has witnessed the impact of Sustainable Connections in the community. These two organizations began at a similar time and developed together, sharing a mission of growing awareness about local food. Jessica and her husband, Mataio, spent 20 years building relationships with local farmers, producers and food artisans in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. They educated their customers about seasonal cooking by highlighting the best the seasons had to offer through their menus for special events, cooking classes, restaurant lunches and CT2GO meals. In the early days you would often see her at SC events, serving up delicious meals! Jessica brings her many years of event planning experience and her passion for local food to Sustainable Connections and the Food and Farming program. She hopes to expand the networks of chefs and farmers and encourage more local restaurants to incorporate the incredible food grown in Whatcom County. She holds a degree in Environmental Education from Huxley College at Western Washington University.

Brandi Hutton

(she/her/hers)

Toward Zero Waste Program Manager
Energetic, creative, plant nerd, hiker, mom

360.647.7093 x 119
brandih@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Brandi

Brandi loves connecting with our community and helping to inspire a brighter future. She’s beyond ecstatic to be part of the Toward Zero Waste and Food Recovery Initiatives where she has the opportunity to have an active role in shaping effective programs that promote sustainable practices. Born and raised in the Midwest, Brandi arrived in Bellingham in 2006 to pursue a degree in Environmental Conservation from Fairhaven College at Western Washington University. Since graduating, she has passionately pursued and developed an authentic understanding of practical approaches to natural resource management. Whether it be working with private landowners through Whatcom County to protect water quality, or educating the public through specific outreach programs, Brandi’s unwavering commitment to our community is a constant.

Outside of work, Brandi enjoys participating in all of the unique and exciting community events in Bellingham, as well as hiking the hundreds of trails nearby with family.

Chelsea Hilmoe

(she/her/hers)

Toward Zero Waste Program Coordinator
Planner, fruit-lover, optimistic, learner, hiker

360.647.7093 x 114
chelseah@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Chelsea

Chelsea grew up in Whatcom County, spending most of her days playing outside, climbing trees, and biking around the neighborhood. Overtime, she developed a deep appreciation for nature and her love for trees and animals inspired her to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science at WWU, and taking on jobs in Environmental Education. Chelsea is excited to integrate her passion for the environment, along with her experience in Environmental Education and her other planning and organizational skills to help folks in her community reduce their environmental impact. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her husband and dog, tending to her garden, reading, or tackling house projects and baking new treats when the weather keeps her indoors.

Connor Hoemann

(he/him/his)

Toward Zero Waste Program Assistant
Adventurer, optimistic, open-minded

360.647.7093 x 106
connorh@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Connor

Born and raised in Bellingham, Connor is a passionate environmental steward dedicated to sustainability and community resilience. Having graduated from Whittier College in 2023 with a B.A. in Environmental Science, he has a strong academic background in conservation, ecology, and environmental policy. Whether hiking, camping, biking, or kayaking, Connor loves spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. With his experience in food waste management and plastic pollution research, Connor is committed to building a circuliar economy. He is thrilled to join the Towards Zero Waste Program, where he can support local communities and businesses while positively impacting the environment.

Izzy Slisz

(she/her/hers)

Food Recovery Program AmeriCorps VISTA
Music lover, color coordinator, detail oriented, trinket collector

360.647.7093 x 118
izzys@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Izzy

Born and raised in Bellingham, Izzy has deep roots in the local community. After graduating high school, she ventured to Ithaca College in New York and later embraced a new adventure as an Au Pair in Spain. Even with these exciting experiences, Bellingham’s charm drew her back home. Izzy earned her Associate’s degree in Environmental Science from Whatcom Community College in 2023, where she discovered the AmeriCorps VISTA program through a friend.
Izzy is thrilled to be serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA at Sustainable Connections. She values the program’s unique opportunity to explore diverse aspects of sustainability and nonprofit management while making a meaningful impact in her community.
No matter where she is, Izzy’s creativity shines through in all aspects of her life. In her free time, she enjoys playing guitar, crafting, cooking yummy food, and soaking up all the sun she can get.

Nick Cusick

(he/him/his)

Energy & Green Building Program Manager
Strategic, people person, rooted, kind, amateur sourdough baker

360.647.7093 x 113
nicholasc@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Nick

Nick’s been everywhere. Having grown up in a military family, he’s lived in areas as far-flung as Alaska and Thailand, but finds his roots in the great PNW. His career has been just as wide ranging, focused on data analytics, water quality, climate resiliency, renewable energy, wildfire, and program development. Nick’s “thrive zone” is working with others to fit the right resources in place at the right time to make good work happen. When not sitting behind a desk, you’ll most often find him at a coffee shop, on the trail, or in the kitchen cranking out sourdough loaves. He’s also well known as a committed sandal wearer, rain or shine (“aren’t your feet cold?!”).

Jordan Olson

(he/him/his)

Commercial Energy Advisor
Analytical, reader, questioner, builder, outdoor athlete

360.647.7093 x 117
jordano@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Jordan

Jordan grew up in Seattle and put down roots in Bellingham in 2023 after living in San Luis Obispo, Portland, Salt Lake City, Pittsburgh, and Sacramento. His work on the Energy & Green Building team is informed by his previous experience working as a mechanical engineer, energy analyst, and sustainability consultant on commercial, multifamily, education, tech, government, and healthcare projects. He spent several years working in a Living Building and strongly believes that the technology exists today to create a sustainable and resilient built environment. He’s excited to be focused on reducing barriers and increasing access to energy conservation measures.

Jordan holds a BS in mechanical engineering from Cal Poly, a BA in philosophy from the University of Washington, and a MA in the history and philosophy of science from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a licensed professional engineer in the state of Washington and has also worked as a professional bike mechanic.

In his free time Jordan enjoys rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, reading science fiction novels, and chilling with his cats.

Elizabeth Vaughn

(she/her/hers)

Energy & Green Building Program Coordinator
Solution minded, analytical, granola, adventurous, dog obsessed

360.647.7093 x 123
elizabethv@sustainableconnections.org

Learn about Elizabeth

Elizabeth Vaughn is an Oregonian who made her way up the coast, to find the perfect home in Bellingham in 2021. Elizabeth is a graduate of Western Washington University’s Business and Sustainability B.A. program with a minor in Economics where she took great interest in sustainable energy systems and their potential environmental and economic impacts. She is excited to dive deeper into her interests in expanding access to energy efficient technology access to equitably serve local communities after working on a project examining the connection between legislature and energy efficiency in buildings.

Elizabeth loves spending time outside with her dog on forgotten trails and logging roads or paddle boarding. When the weather takes a turn, she enjoys the challenge of cooking new things and reading voraciously.