James DeSalvo,
Executive Director

James manages MVSTA operations and staff along with overseeing maintainance of the trails, bridges, and signs year round. He also manages race & event logistics, ski patrol, 'adopt a trail' and general volunteers.

Professionally he has worked most recently as the Regional Director for Outward Bound managing operations in AK, WA, OR, and CA. James also brings experience as a state park ranger, ski patroller, EMT, and wild land fire fighter. James moved to the valley in 1999 and enjoys doing anything outside.

Paula Christen,
Office Administrator

Paula & Jan

Paula handles the day-to-day office operations and financial aspects of MVSTA, including payroll, financial and budget management, office public relations, and is the friendly voice that usually greets you at our office. Paula has lived in the Methow Valley for 25 years, and is an active watercolor artist and instructor.

Rob Seckinger,

Seasonal Trails Manager

 Rob oversees the daily maintenance and operations out on the trails as the Trails Manager and Lead Groomer.  He puts in most of his time prepping the trails in the fall, and keeping them in world-class condition all winter, but you may see him out there periodically in the summer as well, leading a bridge replacement or trail upgrade with volunteers.  This summer, Rob will be riding his bike, with his wife and two kids, from New Mexico to Canada!

Danica Kaufman,
Public Relations

Danica assists with organizational development, landowner communications, grant writing, public outreach, publication design and trail pass sales. Her educational background is in biology, and geology, and most of her professional experience has been in teaching and non-profit development. Danica moved to the Valley in 2001, where she has raised her two kids (Payten and Ben) on the trails, and has worked for the Methow Conservancy and MVSTA.

Kristen Smith,
Marketing Director

 

Kristen directs the promotion and marketing of MVSTA and is the one often greeting you during events with a smile and a quick photo. She is also the driving force behind our social media operations. She has over 20 years of experience working in the outdoor industry, which is why you will usually find her hauling way too much gear into the outdoors. Kristen's passions are biking, hiking, and skiing. 
Mike Pruett
Events Director
 Before joining the staff in 2010, Mike was involved with MVSTA for many years helping to coordinate the Start and Finish lines at most events.  Mike brings to the organization over 25 years of administration and community oriented experience.  Mike is an active member of the Loup Loup Ski Patrol and a Board Member for the Little Star Montessori School.