Jerí Irby is a dedicated conservationist with over a decade of professional experience in forestry, environmental education, and community engagement. She has demonstrated exceptional skills in program management, stakeholder collaboration, and the application of cutting-edge conservation science. As the RETREET Manager for Keep America Beautiful, Jerí oversees the logistics of tree-planting programs, leveraging her expertise in forestry and public outreach to support communities affected by natural disasters. Previously, she served as an Area Forester with Oklahoma Forestry Services managing the state nursery responsible for producing over five million conservation seedlings annually.
Jerí holds a Master of Science in Land Resources and Environmental Science from Montana State University, with research focused on invasive species management, and a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Ecology and Management with an emphasis in Forest Resource Conservation from Oklahoma State University. Beyond her professional achievements, Jerí contributes to her community through initiatives like urban gardening and mentoring youth in the 4-H program as well as owning and operating a cut flower farm outside Washington, OK.