Susan B. Eirich, Ph.D., President
Susan B. Eirich, Ph.D., uses her degrees in biology, psychology and education to deepen her understanding of wild animals with the goal of forging a better understanding between these vibrant creatures and humans. Every since she can remember, she has had an instinctive understanding of the importance of all living things and how essential it is to not treat them mindlessly or disrespectfully, for our sake as well as for theirs. During her career, Susan has interwoven psychology, biology, education and art; teaching at universities around the world and directing a Nature Conservancy preserve, always working to broaden perspectives to see through others’ eyes. Founder of the Earthfire Institute, Susan uses her skills in writing, teaching and photography to share the wonder and fascination of what she has found living with her beloved animals.
Allan Blitz, Ed.D., Vice President
Allan Blitz, Ed.D., has worked as a psychologist in universities, in private practice, and for 20 years in the NYC school system as a school psychologist. Allan particularly enjoys working with children and now has a therapy dog who is working with both adults and children. His relationship with Earthfire allows him to explore his joy for the outdoors and wildlife.
Elizabeth M. Kutter, Ph.D., Secretary
Elizabeth M. Kutter, Ph.D., has been a Member of the Faculty in Biophysics and head of the laboratory of phage biology at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA since 1972. She received her BS in mathematics at the University of Washington, Seattle in 1962 and her Ph.D. in biophysics at the University of Rochester, New York, in 1968. Betty was one of the founders of the naturopathic movement and instrumental in establishing Bastyr College in Seattle, one of the world’s leading academic centers for education, research and clinical service in natural health, arts and sciences. Betty shares the Earthfire vision and understands the connection between human and animal health and the health of the planet.
John Towner, Treasurer
John Towner is a Registered Professional Land Surveyor and has owned and operated a surveying business in Colorado for 18 years. He has been involved for over 25 years with three different non-profit boards working to restore the wolf and its habitat to the Southern Rockies ecosystem. During this time, John was fortunate enough to meet Susan and Jean of Earthfire and he witnessed first-hand the true communication that is possible between humans and animals. “It has been my great fortune,” says John, “to be involved with Earthfire and watch the vision Susan and Jean created come to fruition.”
Michelle Lund, Member at Large
Michelle Lund has been a member of the Sharon D. Lund Foundation since 1993. She is a great lover of animals, nature and people. “I know the significance of the three coming together and complimenting the world we live in.” Being the Board’s newest member, Michelle looks forward to making an impact and thanks Earthfire for including her on this adventure.
Earthfire Experience with Bob Tondro
Penelope Smith Retreat Comments
