Shelly Barrick Parsons is the Executive Director of Capital Trees, where she leads with a deep commitment to the relationship between people and the natural environment. A graduate of Meredith College and Union Presbyterian Seminary (MACE, MDiv, PhD), Shelly has guided ministries and nonprofits, including serving as founding Executive Director of the Harless Center, a public-private partnership that built community-focused student housing. She brings experience in growing and sustaining organizations, with an understanding of success that values both return on investment and the transformation of individuals and communities. Drawn to Capital Trees through her own love of being outside to reflect and connect, she knows firsthand the role public green spaces play in renewal, well-being, stewardship, and belonging. Email Shelly or call her at 804-788-6450.
Meg Clinard is Director of Administration for Capital Trees. Meg oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, manages all correspondence with donors, coordinates board activities and works closely with our volunteers. For the last 15 years, she has assisted small businesses with office management and accounting, and she has been active in the Richmond community as a volunteer. Meg received her B.A. from Hollins University in 1978 and currently lives in Richmond with her husband Noel. Email Meg or call her at 804-788-6450.
Jesse Palma is the Community Engagement Manager for Capital Trees. Jesse brings a background in environmental health research with a focus on coastal geography, ecology, and socioeconomics in the Southeastern United States. She studied Environmental Geography, Civil Engineering, and GIS at Old Dominion University, where she continues to contribute to the Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience on projects ranging from resilience assessments in underserved communities to natural hazard planning. Growing up in Virginia’s Tidewater region instilled in her a deep appreciation for conservation and green infrastructure, and she is committed to advancing climate resilience through both technical expertise and community engagement. At Capital Trees, Jesse is grateful for the chance to share how green spaces strengthen climate resilience and support the health and well-being of all communities. Email Jesse or call her at 804-788-6450.
Mary Petres is Horticulture Manager for Capital Trees. Mary grew up in the Shenandoah Valley sharing a love of wildflowers with her mom and trees with her Dad. Mary graduated from University of Virginia with a degree in Speech and Communications. Mary’s first association with Capital Trees was in 2013 when her Landscaping company Manchester Gardening handled the maintenance of Great Shiplock Park and 14th street medians and tree wells. Mary has over 20 years of experience in garden maintenance and installations. She is a certified Virginia Horticulturalist and has her first level Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional certification. Mary enjoys sharing her love of the outdoors with her 4 year granddaughter. Mary is passionate about helping to create and maintain healthy greenspaces that are accessible to everyone. Email Mary or call her at 804-788-6450.
Anne Poarch is the Director of Advancement for Capital Trees. Anne Poarch is the Director of Advancement for Capital Trees, a Richmond-based author, entrepreneur, and founder of Basket and Bike a bicycle tour company that connects people to nature and community while supporting local conservation. A graduate of Wake Forest University, she studied in Paris before returning to Richmond, where she spent over two decades in financial services before pursuing her creative and entrepreneurial passions. Through her business, philanthropy, and two books of nature-based poetry, Anne has inspired thousands to experience the joy of the outdoors, while continuing to see supporting public greenspaces as both a civic responsibility and a gift to the community. Email Anne or call her at 804-788-6450.
