Leeza joined the VLT team in April 2024. For over 20 years, Leeza has served in local environmental and marine science education, administrative, and management positions including Channel Islands Naturalist Corps at NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Park, Volunteer and Interpretation Manager at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, Tidepool School Educator at Hollister Ranch, Education and Tour Program Coordinator at UCNRS UCSB Coal Oil Point Reserve, and Database Specialist at Ventura Botanical Gardens. Previously, Leeza graduated from UCSB and worked locally as a tutor, library coordinator, and researcher for 9 years. Leeza grew up in Palm Desert often walking with her grandfather in a beautiful undeveloped area that later became a preserve she visits with her family.

Leeza loves adventures with her husband and two sons, walking at VLT preserves, and working together to make a positive impact in our community.