Organization
Why We're Here
We are dedicated to protecting the wilderness, native species, and the ecology of Cumberland Island.
The complex history of Cumberland Island requires public oversight and stewardship; our purpose is to help educate the public and hold decision-makers accountable.
Wild Cumberland supporters work together to ensure the long-term stewardship and preservation of Cumberland Island and its natural ecosystem.
Who We Are
Carol Ruckdeschel
Carol is a self-taught biologist, naturalist, environmental activist, and author who has lived on the island for over 40 years. She was instrumental in the establishment of the CINS and its wilderness designation.
Jessica Howell-Edwards
Jessica has been passionate about protecting the island since her first visit, 25 years ago. She’s proud to use her experience with activism, communication, & marketing to ensure the protection of Cumberland Island.
Stephen Cofer-Shabica
Stephen is a biologist, researcher & naturalist with a Ph.D. in Geological/Biological Oceanography. He offers more than 40 years experience as an oceanographer, naturalist, & consultant.
Dani Purvis
Dani is an environmental and social scientist conducting research on the influences of pro-environmental and health behaviors at AnalyticsIQ. She has a Master of Arts in Climate Change & Global Sustainability from the School for International Training and a Master of Public Health from Emory University.
Panos Kanes
Panos first visited more than 40 years ago, owns property on neighboring Little Cumberland, and is committed to the protection of Georgia’s coastal ecology.
Advisory Board Members
Kathryn Dudeck
Kathryn is currently the Wildlife Director of Chattahoochee Nature Center (Roswell, GA). She has a MS in Marine Sciences/Microbial Ecology and a BS in Zoology/Ecology from the University of Georgia.
Andy Hall
Andy is a native of Brunswick and passionate about coastal conservancy; he is also a retired registered Landscape Architect who attended the University of Georgia.
Madeline VanDyck
Madeline is passionate about conservation. She was a founding member of the Athens Greenway Commission, founding Chair of the Oconee Rivers Land Trust, and former President of Athens Chapter of the Georgia Conservancy.
Sasha Greenspan
Sasha is a research scientist at the University of Alabama, specializing in amphibian disease ecology. She earned a Master’s degree in Ecology at the University of Maine and a PhD degree from James Cook University in Australia.