From Berks Nature
On Monday, Dec. 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 nonprofit 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 and engagement: Beckey has been part of the Berks Nature team for five years, most recently as volunteer engagement manager and 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 as an environmental educator. Beckey is knowledgeable and passionate about conservation, educating the public and future generations about conserving natural resources and helping adults and children develop a deep relationship with the natural world.
English Dawson, volunteer engagement manager and educator: English is a familiar face to many who visit The Nature Place. Part of the Berks Nature team for three years, her most recent responsibilities included managing the public spaces at the 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 the volunteer opportunities, including the popular ambassador volunteer training program, four active watershed associations, and the 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 the organization, as he served an internship with the organization and maintained involvement.
Jack is an active volunteer for the 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 the Berks Nature team in January 2026.
About Berks Nature
Berks Nature is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation organization that has been serving the Berks County community since 1974. The organization believes that nature is essential to our quality of life. The organization’s work centers around this value, from land preservation and trail management, to community gardens and environmental education, to the State of the Environment report and summer Eco-Camp; protecting, stewarding, and connecting people to nature and Berks County’s unique mosaic of natural resources.
The organization welcomes your involvement in many ways! Become a champion of nature, volunteer, make a donation, or attend an upcoming program at The Nature Place. Get involved today. Your local action can have a global impact. Visit berksnature.org for more information.
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