Elizabeth Ransom joined the PEC communications team as the Media & Public Relations Specialist in January 2026, motivated to contribute to PEC’s mission to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont. Previously, Elizabeth led Persuasive PR, a small business providing communications and public relations support to clients including Virginia parks authority NOVA Parks.
About Us
Jessica Collins
Jessica Collins joined PEC in December of 2025 to support the finance team as Bookkeeper.
Emily Stern
Emily joined PEC in 2026 as the Conservation Field Representative for Rappahannock County.
Michael Barber
Michael joined the PEC team in 2026. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University’s Center for Environmental Studies, where he interned with the University Sustainability Office and helped track energy, waste and emissions data.
Jared Mummert
Jared joined PEC’s staff in November 2025 as Senior Data Center Reform Campaign Coordinator, bringing experience in grassroots environmental campaigns and project management.
Randal Fellows immerse themselves in PEC’s work
Twelve college students and recent graduates from around the country joined us this summer for the 19th annual Randal Fellowship, an eight-week immersion program in The Piedmont Environmental Council’s work and exploration of conservation-related careers.
Assma Shabab
Assma joined PEC in August 2025 as the Cartographer and GIS Analyst. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy and holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Hollins University.
Laura Schliesske
Laura Schliesske joined The Piedmont Environmental Council as an Advancement Assistant in August 2025. Prior to that, Laura worked as a ranger at Sky Meadows State Park, where she gained a deep appreciation for PEC’s conservation work.
Randal Fellows Alumni Testimonials
More than 200 college-age students have graduated from our Randal Fellowship Program. Hear what alumni had to say in their own words.
Evelyn Eichorn
Evelyn Eichorn joined The Piedmont Environmental Council as a Senior Land Use Field Representative for Fauquier County in June 2025. Evelyn grew up in Michigan, the heart of the Great Lakes region, known for its agriculture and recreation. After spending most of her formative years on farms, in 4-H, and with horses, she pursued degrees in business and agriculture.