On December 15, Tami Shimp officially moved into the President position at Berks Nature. This change was first announced to the public in early-November as a result of Kim Murphy’s retirement. Tami is preparing to celebrate her 29th year with the organization and brings experience in conservation, fundraising, leadership, and non-profit management.
As a result of immediate staff changes within the organization, Berks Nature is proud to announce the following promotions and new hire:
Beckey Seel, Director of Development & Engagement: Beckey has been part of our Berks Nature Team for five years, most recently as Volunteer Engagement Manager & Educator. As a result of this promotion, she is primarily responsible for donor relations, fundraising, and managing grant opportunities for the organization. Prior to her time at Berks Nature, she worked in Berks and other surrounding counties as an environmental consultant, and then an environmental educator. Beckey is knowledgeable and passionate about conservation, educating the public and future generations about conserving our natural resources, and helping adults and children in developing a deep relationship with the natural world.
English Dawson, Volunteer Engagement Manager & Educator: English is a familiar face to many that visit The Nature Place. Part of the Berks Nature Team for 3 years, her most recent responsibilities included managing the public spaces at our nature center, assisting with community relations, and serving as an educator to hundreds of students visiting for field trips. In this new role, English will manage our volunteer opportunities including our popular Ambassador volunteer training program, four active watershed associations, and our intern programs. English was born and raised local to Berks County and is passionate about environmental and social sustainability.
Jack Peronteau, Educator and Community Engagement Specialist: Jack graduated from Kutztown University with a degree in Geography in the Environmental Science track, and he brings a great mix of education and hands-on experience with him to Berks Nature. He is also a familiar face at our organization, as he served an internship with us, and maintained involvement. Jack is an active volunteer for our Hay Creek Watershed Association, where he helps lead the group and supports water testing, data entry, community outreach, and riparian plantings. Jack is an avid photographer with a strong interest in the environment and ecology, especially birds. Jack will officially join our Berks Nature Team in January 2026.