WPO Team
WPO exists thanks to the generous efforts of community members who believe strongly in the value of the outdoor experience.
Pam Kilgore
Founder & Lead Instructor
A native of Michigan, Pam holds a Bachelor's degree from Michigan State University in Horticulture and Landscape Design. Pam has lived in Washington since 2008 with her husband, two kids, and three critters. Pam was inspired to start WPO after leading her kid's classes on hikes and noticing how unfamiliar and, at times, frightened students were with the outdoors and nature.
Bri Hoffman
Assistant Instructor & butterfly expert
coming soon
Dr Jason Kilgore
W&J Professor
​Jason Kilgore is a professor and chair of the Department of Biology, coordinates the Environmental Science Major, and co-coordinates the Social Justice Studies Program. As a broadly trained plant ecologist and former wetland consultant, he is interested in the regulation of plant and animal species distributions from local patches of woods to the landscape scale. He and his students use field and greenhouse studies to understand the impacts of invasive species, environmental contaminants, and climate change on growth, survival, community succession, and migration of plants.
Jared White
PA Master Naturalist & forager
An avid outdoorsman, forager, and photographer, Jared is happiest exploring the lush, natural beauty of SW Pennsylvania. As a PA Master Naturalist as well as a walk leader and identifier for the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club, he often volunteers his time leading fungal forays and assists with other local, natural conservation projects.
Dr Jamie March
W&J Professor
James March is an Associate Professor in the Biology Department and involved in the Environmental Studies, Physical Activity & Wellness, and Conflict and Resolution programs. His recent research focuses on the ecology and conservation of southwestern Pennsylvania. Recent collaborations with students have examined turtle populations, tick abundances, and stream health in forested and urban landscaped. Dr. March is passionate about community engagement and scientific outreach. He does a variety of outreach activities including using photography to teach ecology to local middle school children.
Ana Arriaga
Business Manager
As a self-proclaimed "city creature," Ana became involved with WPO in 2023 through Nature For Preschoolers and felt so strongly about the importance of nature education that she took over WPO business and organizational responsibilities. Ana holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Studies from the University of Iowa, and a Master's degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from West Virginia University.​​
Firefly Gardens (FFG)
Community green space
Firefly Gardens is WPO's sister organization, located in the heart of downtown Washington. This community green space is open to the public and offers free produce (subject to availability), a children's play area, and ample lounging space.
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ADA considerations: uneven ground, exposure to the elements, no public restroom, water access is unfiltered.
