Staff
& Board

Kim Gray, a native Arizonian, has cultivated her deep-rooted passion for the natural world through a lifetime spent exploring the diverse landscapes of Arizona. Raised in Gilbert, Kim’s early years were marked by outdoor adventures and hikes that fueled her commitment to wildlife and desert plant conservation.

A proud alumna of Arizona State University, Kim holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. Complementing her biological sciences background, she earned a Master’s degree in Business Management from Cardinal Stritch University. Kim’s professional journey spans over 35 years within the zoological and conservation community, starting as a zookeeper at the Phoenix Zoo and progressing through various managerial roles at zoos and nonprofit organizations in the US.

Kim’s commitment to conservation led her to the role of Chief Operating Officer at the International Crane Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving cranes and their ecosystems. During her tenure, she successfully oversaw a $10.4 million campus-wide renovation, including the development of a new Visitor Center and exhibits.

As an accomplished nonprofit executive leader, Kim has consistently guided organizations to financial stability, strategic vision, and unparalleled visitor experiences. Her expertise in fundraising has played a pivotal role in securing resources for capital improvements. Notably, Kim has collaborated extensively with government partners, such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service, on endangered species recovery initiatives, including efforts focused on Whooping Cranes, piping plovers, and the California Condor.

Kim’s dedication extends to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, a place that held a special spot in her youth. Her love for gardening finds expression in her role as an avid cultivator of cacti, succulents, and vegetables. Beyond her professional pursuits, Kim enjoys hiking, reading, and cherishing moments with her faithful canine companion, “Trixie.” Currently residing in Gold Canyon, Kim is the proud mother of two adult daughters.

Shelbi Storms, Assistant Director, joined the staff of BTA in Fall 2019. Originally from the Midwest, she came to the area as an AmeriCorps VISTA with Local First Arizona Foundation, where she worked on economic development projects including local business support and improving local food systems. Shelbi earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Bowling Green State University and is a Fall 2017 graduate of the Hispanic Leadership Institute-Copper Corridor. She is delighted to bring her community building skills to BTA.

Allison Lester, Director of Development, joined the staff of BTA in January of 2022. Before joining BTA, Allison spent just over 10 years in the fundraising department of the Heard Museum where she most recently oversaw Membership and Visitor Services and managed a portfolio of individual donors. During her time there, she grew the membership program to a 10-year high and developed a comprehensive member engagement plan that contributed to a drastic increase in earned and contributed revenue for the museum.

Allison was born and primarily raised in the East Valley holds a B.A in Art History from ASU and a M.A. in Museum Studies from the Johns Hopkins University. She looks forward to connecting with the incredible members, volunteers, and donors of the Arboretum

Dr. Lyana Guevara, Director of Education, joined BTA in August of 2024. Dr. Guevara is an alum of both Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University and brings 15+ years of experience teaching in both formal and non-formal settings. Recently leaving her role as Onsite Manager of CAMP INNOVATION at the Arizona Science Center where she oversaw camp programs with over 1,500 attendees in a season. 

In her professional career, Dr.Guevara was an  elementary educator in the Tempe District  where during her tenure, she was recognized for bravery by the Tempe School Board  as well as having the honor of being named one of Arizona State University’s Outstanding Mentor Teacher for the 2018 school year. 

Her professional career spans to the higher education sector, having been a part time Faculty Associate for several years at Arizona State University as well as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Site Lead for the Secondary Education Department at Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at ASU.

Dr.Guevara has also worked for various informal education organizations including The Phoenix Zoo,  Desert Botanical Garden and Audubon Arizona. She has also had the opportunity to serve as an exchange teacher to Trollhattan, Sweden for the Tempe Sister Cities Educator Exchange Program. 

Dr.Guevara is excited to bring her knowledge and experience to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. When not actively supporting educational initiatives she can be found hiking, reading or exploring the great outdoors. 

Kelly Harrigan, Development and Member Services Manager, joined the BTA team in January 2021. She has 15 years of experience in customer service, member relations, and business administration and has served industries such as health and fitness, property management, and digital marketing. An Arizona native, Kelly was born just around the corner in Queen Valley and has been visiting the arboretum for over 35 years, which launched her passion for our desert habitat and all of its plants and wildlife. Keep a lookout for her on the Arboretum’s trails, where you can usually find her snapping a photo or bird-watching, two of her favorite hobbies!

Brenna Murphy-Reynolds, Volunteer and Visitor Engagement Coordinator joined BTA in September of 2024. Brenna is a lifelong outdoor enthusiast with a love for all things Sonoran Desert. She graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Parks and Recreation Management and a minor in Business. She discovered her passion for natural resources and responsible outdoor recreation during her internship with Arizona State Parks. Brenna became the first female Park Ranger for Pinal County Open Space and Trails and assisted in the final stages of development for Peralta Regional Park. In her free time, Brenna enjoys hiking, herping, and baking. Volunteer & Visitor Engagement Coordinator

Sharon Elliott, Director of Marketing and Communication, joined BTA in November of 2020. She brings with her over 20 years of experience in Marketing. She has held positions with some of Arizona’s top broadcast media companies, including Journal Broadcast Group, Bonneville International, Sandusky Radio, Arizona Lotus Corp., and Scripps. She most recently served as the Marketing Manager for the Queen Creek Olive Mill.