Dr. Jackie Augustine holds a Ph.D. in biology from Kansas State University where her dissertation focused on the breeding biology of Greater Prairie-Chickens. She served a decade on the faculty at The Ohio State University at Lima, where she visited Kansas yearly to expand her research to include Lesser Prairie-Chickens.
Since becoming the Executive Director of AOK in 2021, Jackie has led the organization to expand the staff from one full time position to five, initiated the Kansas Lek Treks Prairie-Chicken Festival which attracts people from across North America, started the Nature Adventurepack program which provides libraries with binoculars for patrons to check out, expanded the Protected Areas program, and continued AOK’s dogged advocacy for rare wildlife and habitats. She envisions a future where AOK is the statewide leader in protecting habitat, connecting generations of people with nature, and inspiring action to preserve wildlife.
Kathryn hails from the Kansas City, Missouri area, but grew up in Wichita, Kansas and received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and with a minor in History from Wichita State University. Her previous career experience includes coordinating and implementing a wide range of fundraising activities, including grant writing, donor cultivation and event management. Kathryn became the Director of Philanthropy in 2024.
Amy is the 5th generation to be born and raised on the family farm in the Niobrara River valley of northeast Nebraska. She has a Bachelor of Science from Wayne State College where she studied English Writing and Journalism. Her conservation work includes a variety of experience in natural and cultural resource protection, prairie and forest habitat management, staff/volunteer coordination, outdoor education and communications. She has been the manager of the Hutton Niobrara Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary since 2023.
Sam was born and raised in Kansas and studied at Baker University where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, focusing on Ecology and Evolution. He gained his career experience in California, Arizona and Colorado where he led crews in trail maintenance, invasive species management and habitat restoration. Sam returned to his hometown of Baldwin City, Kansas to continue his career in conservation and natural resource management. He was named the Kansas Protected Areas Manager in 2025.
Brittney is originally from Colorado but calls Kansas home. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Pittsburg State University and a Master of Professional Studies from Fort Hays State University. Her experience lies in administration, marketing, and event planning in higher education and tourism. Brittney resides in Hays, KS and is actively involved in her community serving as the President of the Board of Directors for the Hays Arts Council. She hit the ground running as Events & Communications Manager in 2025.
