Sharon Perez, Chief Advancement Officer

Sharon Miller Perez joined as Chief Advancement Officer in June, where she leads our fundraising campaigns and donor engagement initiatives. Her forestry roots began at Oregon State University, where her father completed his forestry dissertation, and continued through his career with federal land agencies.

Sharon’s career spans nonprofit leadership, environmental advocacy, and editorial storytelling, all centered on building stronger, more connected communities. She also serves as Editor of Mercer Island City Lifestyle magazine and lives in Washington with her husband and two sons.

Chris Deppa, Campus Director

Chris Deppa joined our team as Campus Director in March, bringing a background in trades and facilities management and a deep personal connection to Oregon’s forests. Raised in Portland and shaped by time spent outdoors, Chris now oversees our 5.5-acre campus and Magness Memorial Tree Farm with the same hands-on care and sense of purpose that has guided his career.

He finds daily inspiration in the natural beauty of the site and is passionate about giving back to the landscapes that helped raise him. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and volunteering with Northwest Steelheaders.

Bobbie Winchell, Visitor Services Manager

Bobbie Winchell joined World Forestry Center in April as Visitor Services Manager, bringing over 25 years of experience in customer service, retail, and nonprofit leadership. She brings a thoughtful and guest-centered approach to her work, shaped by a career dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for others.

Bobbie is most inspired by the joy she sees in visitors of all ages as they connect with forests and nature. Outside of work, she collects and sells Laserdiscs through her small business LD Empire, and enjoys quiet hikes, quirky discoveries, and community volunteering.

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