Introducing new leadership and welcoming Whitman College students to BMLT this Summer
WALLA WALLA, WA – At Blue Mountain Land Trust (BMLT), we believe in the power of collective action. We are excited to announce a new leadership role at the organization and extend a warm welcome to our summer interns from Whitman College. With our new leadership and enthusiastic next generation of change makers, we are excited to embark on this journey of growth and make a positive difference across the Blue Mountain region.
Afrose Ahmed
BMLT Deputy Director
Afrose Ahmed,
Deputy Director
Afrose brings an impressive background in community-based nonprofit organizations, spanning two decades of experience in various roles. Her expertise ranges from direct social services, event planning, volunteer management, and all aspects of nonprofit development.
With a lifelong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, Afrose will lead BMLT's DEIJ initiatives as our Deputy Director. Additionally, she will provide strategic leadership to our community engagement programs, launch a formal volunteer program, and contribute her financial management and workplace culture expertise. Since August 2021, Afrose has been leading our development program, and we are excited to see her contribute to our organization's growth as we professionalize and deepen our roots beyond the Walla Walla Valley.
"Being passionate about social justice from a young age brought me to climate and environmental justice work, as I realized that the climate crisis would most negatively impact BIPOC, low-income, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and other marginalized communities. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead at BMLT, making us a stronger organization and creating a positive impact for the beautiful Blue Mountain region," said Afrose.
BMLT Summer Internships
We are excited to welcome three talented interns from Whitman College, who will support bring their unique perspectives, skills, and passions to BMLT.
Aldo Feria
Equity in the Outdoors Intern
Aldo Feria,
Equity in the Outdoors Intern
Aldo, a Sociology and Hispanic Studies double major at Whitman College, has a strong connection with the outdoors and surrounding landscapes, having grown up in Walla Walla. He is passionate about building relationships within the community and will focus on learning the history of the region while supporting outdoor recreational programs that engage with the Latino/Hispanic community.
During his free time, you’ll find Aldo working out at the gym, playing soccer for the Walla Walla Stars (a semi-pro team based here in the valley), hosting youth camps with Blue Mountain Community Soccer, or riding his bike around town.
With funding support from the Sherwood Trust and Aldo's dedication, we strive to foster inclusivity, and provide culturally relevant programs and access to outdoor experiences.
Carlee Allen
Communications & Outreach Intern
Carlee Allen,
Communications & Outreach Intern
Carlee, a rising junior majoring in Art and Rhetoric at Whitman College, brings her creative talents to BMLT.
Hailing from Western Colorado, where the mountains and mesas have always been a source of solace and inspiration, Carlee understands the transformative power of nature. Her hometown of Fruita, Colorado is a wonderful place to get outside all year long. In times when Carlee has felt overwhelmed, the mountains are a space where she can go to think, walk around, connect with nature, and forget about the things causing stress. These experiences brought her immense comfort and were always available to her even without access to outdoor equipment.
In her spare time, Carlee’s interests center around creativity, including fiber arts, crocheting, drawing, writing, and playing music. This summer, she will support our communication and outreach efforts, utilizing her artistic skills and passion for storytelling to connect with the community and spread awareness about the work we do.
Jacob Ryerson
Conservation & Stewardship Intern
Jacob Ryerson,
Conservation & Stewardship Intern
Jacob, a senior majoring in Environmental Studies and Economics at Whitman College, is originally from Moraga, California, located approximately 20 miles east of San Francisco.
As an avid golfer and outdoor enthusiast, Jacob finds solace in nature and values the mental rejuvenation it provides. He enjoys playing for Whitman's Golf team, spending time outdoors with friends, rock climbing, and hiking.
During the summer as the Conservation & Stewardship Intern, Jacob will contribute to our conservation efforts, travel to BMLT-protected properties, hike across diverse terrain, collect data points, and create annual monitoring reports. This work is vital to ensuring accountability, preservation, and protection of the Blue Mountain landscapes.
As we continue to grow and expand our impact, these individuals will play a vital role in driving our mission forward and fostering connections within the community. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strive for a more inclusive and sustainable future!
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