On Monday, August 5, Sonoma Ecology Center welcomed two accomplished and deeply committed community leaders—Donna Dambach and Eric McHenry—to our Board of Directors. “We’re thrilled to welcome Donna and Eric to the Sonoma Ecology Center Board of Directors. Both bring unique expertise and a wealth of experience that will strengthen our board and support our growth as we look ahead to the next 35 years,” said Sonoma Ecology Center Associate Director Tiffany Wing. “Our community—which they are eager to serve—will benefit greatly from their knowledge, dedication, and hard work.”
We look forward to introducing you to Dambach and McHenry in greater depth in the coming weeks, and to sharing—in their own words—what led them to lend their expertise, experience, and enthusiasm to furthering the Sonoma Ecology Center’s mission. In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about the impressive accomplishments each of them brings to the table.
Donna Dambach has called Sonoma Valley home for 14 years, drawn to its natural beauty, vibrant community spirit, and “Slownoma” pace of life. A mostly retired veterinary pathologist and toxicologist, Donna spent 25 years in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals leading research and development at Bristol-Myers Squibb, Genetech, and Sana Biotechnology. Her board service includes the Morris Animal Foundation, where she chairs the Research Operating Committee, as well as numerous scientific societies and consortia. Locally, Donna’s volunteer work spans trail maintenance at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and Montini Preserve (both managed by Sonoma Ecology Center), local creek cleanups, gleaning with Farm to Pantry, supporting Cancer Support Sonoma, and serving on the City of Sonoma’s Planning Commission and the Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission. Her dedication to community engagement, sustainability, and science-based decision making aligns perfectly with SEC’s values.
Eric McHenry is a retired professional Chief Information Officer and a graduate of MIT in electrical engineering. He comes to Sonoma Ecology Center with a unique and valuable perspective as the current President of Robert Ferguson Observatory, which is located at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park (managed by Sonoma Ecology Center). Over the course of his career, Eric has held leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, including co-founding a telecom infrastructure company, directing the City of Santa Rosa’s Information Technology Department, and managing global product development at HP/Agilent. His record of service includes board positions with KRCB NorthBay Public Media, Exchange Bank, United Way, Redwood Empire Food Bank, and as President of Airstream Club International. An avid outdoorsman, Eric can often be found kayaking, hiking, camping, or stargazing with his wife LaVerne, their daughter, and friends. His experience in technology, leadership, and environmental stewardship will be a tremendous asset to SEC’s mission.
Please join us in giving Donna Dambach and Eric McHenry a warm welcome to the Sonoma Ecology Center Board of Directors. We are excited for the insight, creativity, and leadership they will bring to our work in the years ahead.
