Our Team
We are passionate, dedicated, and diverse representatives from a wide range of differing professional and life perspectives. This array of expertise ensures the successful execution of projects that improve communities through effective engagement, education and outreach; engineering; and project management. Our team’s deep understanding of local government, recycling, and waste management creates focused pathways for effective implementation of strategies that create enduring solutions for all communities.
Jennifer Wendt
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jennifer Wendt is an environmental professional with over 30 years of experience, including a background in analytical chemistry and over a decade in municipal government. She empowers communities along the Mississippi River to reduce plastic pollution through collaboration and science-based solutions. Jennifer serves as Clean Water Director for the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative (MRCTI), where she leads the Mississippi River Plastic Pollution Initiative. Contact Jennifer.
Location: St. Louis, MO
Caran Hanks
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST
Caran is a Community Engagement Specialist with expertise in grant writing, strategic planning, and revitalizing underserved neighborhoods. She drives initiatives that promote long-term positive change while addressing the interconnected challenges of environmental and economic resilience. Contact Caran.
Location: St. Louis, MO
Brent Batliner
RECYCLING MARKET DEVELOPMENT
Brent is a fourth-generation recycling professional with 38 years of experience in sales, marketing, operations, and safety. After retiring from St. Louis Republic Services Recycling as General Manager in 2024, he is now using his knowledge to improve plastic recycling in Mid America, continuing his dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Contact Brent.
Location: St. Louis, MO
Mitch Reynolds
PROGRAM SPECIALIST
Mitch Reynolds is the former mayor of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and recent co-chair of the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative (MRCTI)—a coalition of 100+ communities along the Mississippi River. As mayor, Mitch championed sustainability, advancing carbon neutrality, reducing plastic pollution, and expanding equitable housing. He has a background in award-winning journalism and project management in sustainable building products and manufacturing. Contact Mitch.
Location: La Crosse, WI
Nikki Landrum
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE
Nikki Landrum is deeply committed to uplifting her community through outreach, mentorship, and grassroots initiatives. With 12 years experience working under two mayors, she champions equity and support for underserved families, driving change through collaboration and hands-on-service.
Location: Greenville, Mississippi
Thomasina W. Joseph
CLEAN GREEN NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Thomasina W. Joseph is a dynamic and committed community leader based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has developed a robust expertise in directing community members toward vital resources, fostering connections, and catalyzing meaningful change. Thomasina leads the Clean Green Neighborhood Alliance in Baton Rouge. Contact Thomasina.
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
Angelica Jo Buxton
BFA, INC., PROJECT COORDINATOR
Angelica is an experienced project manager working with utility companies, municipalities, and agencies like the DOT, US Army Corps of Engineers, and DNR. She has expertise in civil design, utility coordination, permitting, and preparing bid documents and estimates.
Location: Washington, MO
Cole Langford
BFA, INC., ENGINEER IN TRAINING
Cole is an aspiring engineering management professional with hands-on experience in civil design, project coordination, and sustainability research. He combines technical skills, leadership from entrepreneurial ventures, and global engagement through Engineers Without Borders to drive effective, community-focused solutions.
Location: Washington, MO