Andy, a self-professed plant and aquarium geek since second grade, has turned his lifelong passion into a successful career as a scientist and science educator. With a prior career in biochemical testing for the food and animal feed industries, Andy's journey eventually led him to his role managing Lichterman Nature Center for 23 years. In a 2022 reorganization and rebranding effort, his responsibilities expanded to include directing not only Lichterman Nature Center but also the historic Mallory-Neely and Magevney Houses, and Coon Creek Science Center.
As part of the Memphis Museum of Science & History (MoSH), a public/private collaboration between the City of Memphis and a 501(c)3 organization, Lichterman Nature Center stands as a 65-acre living museum in the heart of Memphis. It boasts demonstration gardens, three miles of scenic trails through lake, meadow and forest habitats, captivating exhibits, a greenhouse, live animal collections, certified Arboretum and 40,000 square feet of multipurpose buildings. The Nature Center proudly showcases 51 species of animals through various exhibits and programs, and propagates approximately 7,500 native plants annually, representing around 250 species, many of which are sourced locally by the dedicated staff and volunteers.
Under Andy's leadership, Lichterman Nature Center introduced numerous innovative educational programs for schools and the public alike. In addition, annual native plant sales expanded in both size and educational component. He completed multiple capital projects, including the construction of a playscape, trail resurfacing, and managing the third year of a five-year, $3 million major maintenance initiative.
Andy holds a B.S. in Chemistry from The University of Tennessee and obtained his M.B.A. through the Executive M.B.A. program at the University of Memphis. He is currently working with community groups working on food gleaning, and promotion of using native plants in urban areas as well as traveling, scuba diving, gardening and tending a menagerie of companion animals.
It was in 2008, during his first ANCA Summit in Jackson Hole, that Andy experienced a life-changing moment. As a former lab director immersed in the world of chemicals and microbiology, he discovered a supportive community of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for nature and environmental conservation. Since then, Andy has eagerly participated in subsequent Summits, relishing the opportunity to connect with others pursuing similar life's work and interests in an enriching and encouraging environment.
