STAFF
Jamilla Jones
Interim Executive Director
Before this position, I was a social justice educator at Springfield and Holyoke public schools for 25 years. I spent my time as a teacher and administrator helping students value their uniqueness and cultural differences. I also have a background as a classically trained chef, restaurant owner, and aspiring farmer. These experiences led me back to the land, nature, and Eagle Eye.
As a member of the BIPOC community, I needed to work with an organization that aligns with my core values. Therefore, Eagle Eye’s commitment to “ Nature for All” was a determining factor for me. In addition, the organization's critical work in the realms of equity and eco-justice is synonymous with the work I did with the youth I’ve educated. Furthermore, bringing my expertise in gardening, sustainable foodways, and regenerative agriculture into this space is a bonus.
I am excited to be part of a team dedicated to empowering our BIPOC youth and providing them with the support and resources they need to access nature and feel comfortable doing so. As an organization, we are committed to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential and impact their communities. By investing in our youth, we are investing in the future of our community, and I am honored to be a part of this vital work.
I look forward to working with all of you as we continue to positively impact the lives of our youth and those who serve our youth. Thank you for your support and dedication to this vital cause.
We welcome our Summer Interns
Photo Left to right: Zuzanna, Emily, Alexis, and Willow
Zuzanna Sowinska
Land Management intern
As a Umass natural resources conservation student and passionate outdoorswoman with proven environmental education and GIS experience, Zuzanna is looking forward to increasing her skills in land management, carpentry, and woodworking.
With academic coursework in both plant and wildlife identification, Zuzanna can provide naturalist interpretation when necessary on a site. She has also completed courses in ArcGisPro, environmental education, and land protection tools and techniques.
Emily Witten
Land Management intern
As a Natural Resource Conservation major with a focus in forest ecology at Umass Amherst, I am excited to apply my skills and passion for conservation work to this internship opportunity. I have a sincere passion for nature and the outdoors, and I’m excited to bring that same enthusiasm to this internship.
Alexis O. Diaz Dejesus
Summer Program Coordinator
Born in Guayama Puerto Rico and raised in South Holyoke, I am passionate about agriculture and food justice and how to make positive long-term changes in Holyoke. I am also interested in learning about farming, nature, and food businesses that align with this so I am excited to get to know the partners and the landscape and learn how to support them this summer through working with Eagle Eye Institute both with the Learn About programs in Peru and the Dean Tech Greenhouse project. “What I want to get out of this experience is connecting and inspiring the youth of Holyoke.”
Willow Johnson Gabrielle
Summer Program Coordinator.
I am excited to work for an organization that is working to bring the outdoors to everyone, while empowering young people to advocate for themselves and the natural world. I am a recent graduate of Umass with a degree in Natural Resource Conservation and passionate about learning more and pursuing a career in environmental advocacy and community outreach.