Our Leadership

James Howe – President 

Jim Howe is a retired mechanical design engineer, who moved to the area in 2003. He has volunteered in Florida State Parks since 2010, with over 2200 volunteer hours served. A Florida Master Naturalist, he leads JDSP’s Florida Scrub Jay Walks. Jim is Conservation Chair of Audubon of Martin County, and hopes the two organizations can both benefit from the crossover. He is also a no-nonsense engineer who will view the park’s many factors practically and provide input accordingly. 

Kraig Spina – Vice President

Kraig Spina, native born and raised in West Palm Beach, is a seasoned hospitality and nonprofit leader with extensive experience in governance, operations, and strategic planning. He currently serves as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Gleneagles Country Club in Delray Beach, Florida, where he oversees complex operations, long-range capital planning, and board-level strategy, including major infrastructure and renovation initiatives. Kraig brings a collaborative, fiscally disciplined approach to leadership, with a strong focus on stewardship, transparency, and community engagement. He is deeply committed to environmental preservation and public access to natural resources, making him a dedicated and mission-aligned contributor to the Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park Board.  

Zachary Graeve – Treasurer  

A versatile strategist and entrepreneur with a talent for turning complex ideas into compelling stories and strategies that resonate. With a career spanning corporate communications, investor relations, finance, and business consulting, blends a deep understanding of capital markets with a creative flair for branding and design. Experienced in collaborating with executive teams and serving on boards, aligning strategic goals with authentic audience connections. An IRC-credentialed professional, driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to helping companies and organizations communicate their vision with clarity and impact.  

Janet Farnan-Dyer – Secretary  

Janet is a native Floridian who began camping in Florida State Parks at the age of 5 with her parents and three sisters. Her love for Jonathan Dickinson State Park started in 1970 when her family first discovered the park, and they have been camping there regularly ever since. To say the park is her home away from home would be an understatement. Janet and her family continue to celebrate holidays and special occasions, including her wedding day, as well as enjoy hiking, biking, and relaxing camping trips in the park, creating countless cherished memories. With over 35 years of experience in corporate and non-profit administration, donor development, and fundraising, Janet is eager to share her skills with the Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Her goal is to support the many activities and the natural beauty the park offers so that others can enjoy it for years to come. 

Jeff Orr

Jeff Orr is the owner of JTown Bike and a longtime advocate for Jonathan Dickinson State Park and the South Florida mountain biking community. His passion for outdoor recreation and trail stewardship guides his work to support sustainable park use and expand access for riders of all ages and skill levels. 

Amanda Kyle  

As a seasoned professional with a passion for community engagement and strategic planning, Amanda has over 15 years of experience in project management and event production. Her expertise lies in steering large-scale projects, managing budgets, and ensuring operational efficiency. Additionally, as the owner of Timberline Glamping at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Amanda is deeply connected to the local community and adept at showcasing the park's attractions. Her dedication to crafting meaningful guest experiences fuels her commitment to community engagement and sustainability initiatives.  

Christina Thirkell   

Christina is a seasoned business, marketing, and nonprofit executive with over 25 years of experience driving growth and transformation across diverse sectors. She has led major initiatives in brand marketing, fundraising, and strategic partnerships, including serving as Executive Director at both the Harvard Business School Alumni Association of Boston and Expect Miracles Foundation, where she built national platforms for social impact. Currently, Christina also serves on the Board of Seaworthy Collective, advancing inclusive ocean and climate innovation. Based in Florida, she is passionate about empowering nonprofits, outdoor exploration, and documentary film.  

Craig Williamson

Craig Williamson serves on the Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park Board of Directors, where he supports the organization’s mission to protect, enhance, and promote the Park. As a board member, he brings experience in governance, strategic planning, and nonprofit fundraising to help strengthen community engagement and long-term stewardship efforts. Craig is actively involved in local civic organizations and is committed to supporting the Park through volunteer service, events, and advocacy.