Behind the

Scenes

Board of Directors

  • Kitty Gayner (she/her)

    Director

    Hello! I'm Kitty, the founder, president, and director of the WOTTHC. Originally from Michigan, I moved to North Carolina in 2021 and started the Hiking Club the very day I arrived.

    When I'm not out on the trails, you'll find me running, painting, enjoying the company of my cats, and spending quality time with my friends. Welcome to my passion project!

  • Ana Sandhu

    Human Resources Director

    Hi everyone! I’m Ana, and I’m excited to be able to be a part of such an incredible organization. I’m originally from the northeast, but NC is the 5th state I’ve lived in- dare I say I finally found home! I am a nationally certified behavior consultant and professional dog trainer, going on my 12th year. My own dog (Athena, or “Pig” I call her most often) is absolutely my best friend. We are also avid backpackers and love to lead first-timers out into the wilderness on extended trips. Other than the obvious fact that I love to hike, I also truly enjoy the opportunity to empower women to be more confident and independent. Learning about people and what makes them who they are is one of my favorite things in the world, so feel free to chat with me! We have a lot to learn from each other.

  • Bri Milot (she/her)

    Director of Volunteer Engagement

    Hi, I'm Bri! I’m passionate about the outdoors and feel fortunate to live in such a beautiful state. Originally from the West Coast, I’ve always loved spending time in nature—whether it's working in my garden or enjoying a good hike. When I’m indoors, you’ll often find me crocheting or reading a book.
    Currently, I’m finishing my Master’s degree in Public Administration at NC State with a focus on Nonprofit Management. As someone with experience in volunteer management, I love applying my skills to support our incredible team of volunteers. I look forward to connecting with you! See you on the trails!

  • Hannah Mack (She/her)

    Director of Membership

    Heyyyyyy, Club, I'm Hannah Mack! When I'm not hiking, I spend my time running or coaching others on how to run, traveling, and playing board games. I've lived in NC most of my life, and I've been a part of this amazing community since the Fall of 2022.

    ...well sort of. I joined the Facebook group, but I was what I call a "lurker" in the group for a few months. I mostly just looked around in the Facebook group and tried to figure out what the vibe was and how to participate. When I finally went on my first hike after the craziness of the holidays, I was hooked! Being a part of a community where other women want to be active, be outdoors, and make real friendships has brightened my life immensely. The only regret that I've had since joining is that I took so long to finally go on my first hike! And that's why I wanted to be Membership Director. I want to make you, our members, feel welcome and confident to join us on the trails, whether it's your first hike with the club or your fiftieth!

  • Joanna D'Ancona

    Director of Events

    Hey y’all, it’s me, Joanna! I originally joined the club to get back into nature and challenge myself to beat my social anxiety. I’ve stayed because of the inspiring and encouraging women I get to meet at each hike and event! When I am not on the trails you can find me playing lots and lots of board games or deep in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. I live in Garner with my two cats Finnegan and Pipsqueak who love to attack my yarn while I’m cozily working on my crochet. I am a sales and marketing manager within the horticulture industry so prepare yourself for some fun plant facts and IDs while on a hike with me! Hope to see you on the trails soon!

  • Audrianna Yackuboskey (she/her)

    Finance Director

    Hi, I'm Audrianna! I relocated to North Carolina from Pennsylvania in 2017. I've always had a deep love for the outdoors, and I am currently training my adventurous pup, Phoenix, to be my future hiking companion!

    In early 2024, I discovered WOTTHC and was immediately impressed by its mission. I'm eager to volunteer my time and utilize my 12+ years of accounting experience to contribute to this fantastic organization!

  • Lindsey Oldt (she/her)

    Program Director

    Hi everyone! I'm Lindsey and I have been a member of WOTTHC since March of 2024.  I am so excited to be more involved in this amazing and supportive community as your Program Director!  

    I started hiking with the club during a transitional period in my life - I had just moved to Raleigh to start a new job, and many of my college friends were no longer in the area.  In a time that felt new and scary, this community was so welcoming, uplifting, and joyful!  WOTTHC is the perfect place to share an activity I love with a new group of friends who encourage each other to gain confidence through our outdoor adventures.  I love seeing everyone's smiling faces as we venture out together and enjoy a new place!  I am looking forward to establishing programs that offer educational opportunities and accessibility support for members so you feel even more empowered to hit the trails.

    In my free time, I love climbing, writing, reading, and cheering for the Tar Heels.  I also love to crochet, go to the Farmer's Market on a busy Sunday, and catch a concert with friends.  Ask me about backpacking in Virginia and my involvement with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy! 

Managers, Coordinators, and More

  • Aswathy Shailaja (she/her)

    Event Coordinator

    Hey y'all! I’m Aswathy, and I relocated to the Durham area in 2021 for work. I'm thrilled to be part of WOTTHC—a community that combines my love of nature with my passion for empowering women through outdoor wellness

    My motivation to volunteer with this incredible team comes from a strong belief in the power of nature—not only to strengthen our bodies but also to ground our minds. For me, hiking isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with ourselves, and appreciating the journey. Spending time outdoors has brought me inner strength and mindfulness, and I’m excited to help others experience the same.

    There’s something truly special about shared experiences on the trail, and I’m committed to planning events that spark joy, foster connections, and inspire wellness. I hope to make each outing more than just a hike—a journey of growth, empowerment, and community.

    Outside of hiking, I love curling up with a good book and my favorite cup of coffee or chai. I’m looking forward to exploring new trails, building meaningful connections, and making every event a chance for us all to grow, share, and embrace the beauty of the outdoors together. Let’s lace up, step out, and enjoy every moment along the way!oes here

  • Bridget Schroeder (she/her)

    Event Coordinator - Hike Events Specialist

    I grew up hiking and camping in the midwest. I spent many years living in Minneapolis and taking my family on Sunday morning hikes outside of the city. I got really hooked on hiking in 2018 when I moved to South Carolina and started exploring the mountains. In 2021 I relocated to Chapel Hill and shortly after began looking for new ways to get out, be active and meet new people. I joined the club in early 2023 and have loved spending my weekends exploring the trails around the triangle and meeting so many wonderful people. I have 2 grown daughters and one in high school, so making time for myself is a priority for me! I also enjoy tennis, running, yoga and my golden doodle, Mike!

  • Elaine Petrone (she/her)

    Events Admin

    Originally from NY, I've lived in Raleigh since college. I work with computers daily and play theatre by night with a few different community theatres in Raleigh. Walking has always been my preferred fitness activity, especially near the local lakes. In 2020 with theaters closed for Covid, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and explore some of the unpaved trails of Umstead, and a newbie hiker was born. I discovered WOTTHC in early 2022, just as I wanted to explore further. I'm happy to be able to give back to WOTTC.

  • Emily Murray (she/her)

    Member Care Coordinator

    Building connections with people who may seem different from me is one of my greatest joys. I love discovering the unique gifts and potential in everyone and collaborating to encourage growth and well-being. The outdoors, especially hiking, has become my path to fostering these meaningful relationships and creating spaces where women can uplift themselves and each other.

    If this resonates with you, let’s chat on the trail sometime—I’d love to connect!

  • Erin Jernigan (she/her)

    Office Manager

    I'm Erin, a native of North Carolina. My love for hiking began when my parents would take me to Hanging Rock on weekends during my childhood. For over two years, I've been an active member of WOTTHC. My first event was the Newbie Orientation. Since then, I've embarked on countless hikes with the club, and I've lost track of the exact number. I enjoy being outside and feel fortunate to be part of this wonderful community of women.

    I graduated from NCSU with a degree in business and a minor in HR Management. Go Pack! I have over a decade of recruitment experience and work for a local tech company. I'm eager to contribute to the smooth operation of WOTTHC and support the team in any way I can.

  • Gwendolyn Woodward (she/her)

    Treasurer

    Hey there, I’m Gwendolyn (not Gwen)! I fell in love with hiking a few years back, and it has truly been the best thing. Hiking is a way to clear my head, get outside, and appreciate nature. In the years that I’ve hiked, I have seen some pretty epic views across many states, and I cannot wait to see more!

    I grew up in South Carolina and lived there for all of my life, until my awesome dog (Cooper Johnson, 10 year old mixed breed pupper) and I moved in with my boyfriend in Pikeville, NC during the fall of 2023. While I work remotely the majority of the time, I do head over to the office for my corporate accounting job in Durham a few times a week.

    I’ve searched for “my people”, you know, the group of friends and people that make you feel at home and comfortable? Yeah, those people. Well, I’ve searched for a while, and in 2024, I found WOTTHC, and knew immediately, I found my people. I am thrilled to be a part of an organization that accepts you for exactly who you are, that encourages you to be who you want to be, and that supports you. I found my people, and I hope you find that you can say the same.

  • Jessie Weeks (she/her/they)

    Mid-Month Newsletter Editor

    Hey there! I'm Jessie, having been part of this wonderful community for over a year now, I am excited to continue my journey with WotTHC as a volunteer.

  • Katie Torres (she/her)

    Membership Coordinator

    Hello! I am Katie, and I've lived in Raleigh since 2017. I was born in Durham but grew up mostly in Portland, Maine. I have always loved getting outside and soaking in nature, whether it be hiking, outdoor yoga, or just reading a book in the park. I have two dogs, a GSP, and a lab mix, and I love exploring new places with them. I speak Spanish and my first ever WOTTHC hike was a Spanish-speaker hike, which was a blast! I have really enjoyed getting involved in the club and getting to know so many women from around the triangle.

  • Laskshmi Krishnamoorthy (she/her)

    Wellness Partner Manager

    I am Lakshmi Krishnamoorthy, a corporate woman turned Health & Wellbeing Coach, Founder of Mindful Manam LLC.

    Through Mindful Manam, I empower women to build sustainable health habits, manage stress, and cultivate mindfulness for a thriving life. Whether it’s through coaching, workshops, or digital resources, my goal is to help you unlock a healthier, more mindful version of yourself.

    As the Wellness Partner Manager at WOTTHC, I look forward to creating impactful wellness programs that inspire and transform lives.

    Let’s embark on this journey together!

  • Lindsay Cowell (she/her)

    Facebook Moderator

    Hey, everyone! I am a native Georgian who moved to North Carolina for grad school. Upon moving to the Triangle area, I was looking for a way to meet people and stumbled upon WOTTHC! I have been involved with the group for 2 years and have enjoyed the hikes and friendships. Aside from hiking, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my dog, Reesy (who also joins the group for hikes :D). I also enjoy coffee, a good crossword puzzle, and going to trivia. I look forward to meeting all of you! 

  • Logan MacDonald (they/them)

    Logan MacDonald

    Facebook Moderator

    Hi everyone! I’m Logan! I’m originally from eastern NC, and moved to the triangle in the summer of 2023. I joined the club right when I moved, and went on my first hike shortly after! I volunteer at most events the club puts on, and really enjoy meeting all of you at the events!

    I have been described as a “hobby hoarder” by my friends. I enjoy crocheting, cross stitch, cooking, reading, watching movies, and whatever other new hobby I pick up! I’m also super into nerd stuff (I have a tattoo of the comics code authority so take from that what you will), and I love horror. I do volunteer work in my free time, mostly with RLT. I also do disability advocacy and volunteer as a patient advocate. Feel free to yap to me about literally anything and I will listen, completely enraptured. Looking forward to meeting you all!

  • Shannon Reckler (she/her)

    Newsletter Editor

    Hello! My name is Shannon, and I joined the club in the fall of 2024 after googling "hiking clubs near me" with the intention of finding like-minded people with whom could connect. I became passionate about hiking in 2022 when I began to focus more on my health. In 2023, I set a goal to hike all 42 NC State Parks by the end of the year, and on 12/30/23 at Crowder's Mountain State Park, I accomplished that goal. I live in Fayetteville with my spoiled pets: two pups and one cat. I work in healthcare management and spend most of my free time trying to relax by cooking, reading, or hiking. I am passionate about the NC mountains and try to escape there as often as I can. My next major hiking goal will be to hike some (maybe eventually all) of the Appalachian Trail. I look forward to meeting many awesome ladies on the trails!

Interested in joining the team?

WOTTHC is built by women, for women. 100% of our volunteers offer their time and skills as a priceless donation to the organization.