Christina Preston brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience, with a career rooted in environmental stewardship, public history and collaborative work with Native Nations. Photo courtesy of Effie Yeaw Nature Center

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - The Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Christina Preston as its new Director of Strategic Development, a role focused on strengthening long-term support for the Nature Center and advancing its mission of connection, stewardship and lifelong learning.

Preston brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience, with a career rooted in environmental stewardship, public history and collaborative work with Native Nations. Her background includes nonprofit operations, strategic development and consulting, and she has been recognized with multiple awards for leadership and service. She holds a Master of Science in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a certification from UCLA’s Native Nations’ Law & Policy Center.

In her new role, Preston will focus on advancing fundraising, partnerships and strategic initiatives that help sustain Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s educational programs, care for the land and deepen community connection.

“Christina brings a rare combination of strategic expertise, lived connection to the Nature Center and American River, and deep respect for both the natural and cultural history of the land,” said Rachael Cowan, Interim Executive Director of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. “Her leadership will play an important role in strengthening the long-term support that allows the Nature Center to serve our community today and for generations to come.”

Preston’s connection to the Nature Center and the American River Parkway is longstanding. Raised along the Parkway, her love of nature began early and continues to shape her life and work. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast — whitewater kayaker and rafter, scuba diver and equestrian trail rider — with training and experience in search-and-rescue. Most recently, she served for six years as the operator of Cal Fire’s Pilot Peak fire lookout in the Sierra foothills, where she led a dedicated team of 30 volunteers responsible for wildfire monitoring and coordination.

As a certified California Naturalist and lifelong learner, Preston brings together hands-on field experience, academic rigor and collaborative leadership. Her work reflects a deep commitment to caring for landscapes, honoring cultural knowledge and supporting the partnerships that allow places like the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to thrive.

“I’m honored to join the Effie Yeaw Nature Center at such a meaningful time,” said Christina Preston. “The Nature Center has long been a refuge for learning, curiosity and connection. I look forward to helping strengthen the support that allows people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature, each other and to carry forward the stewardship of this special landscape.”

The Effie Yeaw Nature Center is where people of all ages and backgrounds connect with nature and with each other. As a community hub for environmental education along the American River Parkway, the Center sparks curiosity, nurtures stewardship, and shares the natural history and living cultural heritage of the land. Effie Yeaw Nature Center offers a museum, animal ambassadors, and a 100-acre Nature Study Area that showcases the region’s oak woodland and riparian habitat. Effie Yeaw Nature Center is operated by the American River Natural History Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education and community engagement. Learn more at www.effieyeawnature.org.