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Staff
Our passionate staff is dedicated to exposing people to the magic, history, and power of Louisiana’s wetlands, where imagination and optimism thrive despite great challenges. With a deep commitment to collaboration, we believe that everyone has a role to play in conserving these vital ecosystems and preserving the rich history and culture of Southeast Louisiana for generations to come.
Christina Lehew
Executive Director
Christina Lehew, Common Ground Relief’s Executive Director, has worked to build resilience in New Orleans and the greater southeast Louisiana region for nearly a decade. Prior to joining Common Ground Relief as Executive Director in 2023, Christina worked with the Lower 9th Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development. During her tenure, she established and facilitated several collaborative programs which emphasized the benefits of partnership networks.
Ashe Burke
Wetlands Restoration Specialist
Ashe, a native of St. Bernard Parish, was raised to respect and rely on the Louisiana wetlands. They studied Coastal Sciences at the University of New Orleans before transferring to the Coastal & GIS program at Nunez Community College. Ashe was previously a ServeLA member with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, where they led volunteers across the state in restoration events in their respective communities.
Kali Bunn
Native Plant Nursery Coordinator
With 10+ years of experience in environmental education and conservation outreach, Kali brings passion for learning and restoration in the outdoors. In her previous roles as a park ranger and education coordinator, gained experience in volunteer coordination, public speaking and project development, specifically in wetland habitats.
Fior Cecchi Rivas
Free Pantry Coordinator
Fior is the current Free Food Pantry Coordinator at Common Ground Relief, a role they recently took on after volunteering at the pantry for several months. Fior also works with the Louisiana Outdoors Outreach Program based in City Park, leading experiential education programs focusing on wetland ecologies and ateam-building.
Board of Directors
Common Ground Relief selects its Board members based on their interest, experience, and commitment to the issues and values set forth in Common Ground Relief’s mission. Common Ground Relief’s Board members represent the diversity of the communities that it serves.
James Stram
President
James Stram is a Lower Ninth Ward resident and served as the Common Ground Relief Wetlands Program Director from 2011 to 2018. As Wetlands Program Director, James led volunteer plantings and managed Common Ground Relief’s native plant nursery. James graduated from McGill University with a B.Sc. in Environmental Science, majoring in renewable resource management.
Annie Moran
Vice-President Freelance Fine Artist, Muralist, and Jewelry Designer
Annie Moran creates fine art, wallpaper and jewelry inspired by the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast and a love of New Orleans. Annie Moran is a visual artist and a new member of the Common Ground Relief (CGR) board. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, she believes that true beauty encompasses clean air, healthy crops, and thriving ecosystems. Annie joined CGR to enhance her stewardship of the environment, supporting the organization's vital work in revitalizing coastal Louisiana's ecosystems and communities. In addition to her role with CGR, she contributes to social justice efforts, supports local businesses, and mentors young artists.
Charles Chaisson
Secretary
Freelance Visual Artist & Illustrator: Charles Chaisson was introduced to Common Ground Relief by fellow board member Blaise Pezold and became captivated by the organization's impactful coastal revegetation and community service efforts. His experience volunteering, including a memorable marsh planting, deepened his commitment to environmental stewardship and reinforced his belief in using art and education to inspire and foster empathy for ecosystem preservation.
Rollin Black
Director of Coastal and Habitat Restoration at the Lower Ninth Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development.
Rollin is the Director of Coastal and Habitat Restoration at the Lower Ninth Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development. The CSED rehabilitates regional wetlands, restores the local natural environment, and builds food security. Rollin is a Xavier University graduate, and leverages his broad experience in coastal restoration, property management, and urban marketing and sales development to support the Common Ground Relief team.
