Joe Letsche
Founder and CEO
The Intercept Project is an extension of my love and passion both for nature and for our less fortunate human brothers and sisters.
For most of my early adult life, I traveled the U.S. like a wandering hippy in search of cool ecosystems and a deeper understanding of natural processes and wildlife. I've served various naturalist and instructor type roles over the years, and then most recently as Nature Preserves Manager and then Executive Director for the Ross County Park District. I lived in Ross County for 21 years, and then moved to New Richmond, Ohio in 2023 when I married an amazing lady named Dr. Marie-Dominique Filippi (A research biologist working on hematopoietic stem cell metabolism at Cincinnati Children't Hospital.) My goal is to create an effective and sustainable organization that continues to work its magic long after I'm gone!
Monica Ginther
Treasurer of the Board
Professionally, Monica worked in Social Services Administration for most of her adult career, being the amazing person that she is and helping to make the world a better place. (No joke...she's the real deal.)
Raised on a farm where Paint Creek was in her backyard, she fell in love with rivers, creeks, and all things water at a young age. Growing up with a forest ranger sister in a family deeply rooted in conservation, she’s spent 50+ years exploring Ohio’s outdoors, picking up litter, and soaking in nature. Now she keeps the vibes flowing behind the scenes with the Project...sharing photos, videos, Instagram stories, and lending a hand at volunteer cleanups to protect our rivers and waterways. And overseeing our financial accountability. She's the strong, silent type, and her significant contributions are very much appreciated!
Deven Atkinson
Secretary of the Board and Trails Guru
In my opinion, trails are to parks what the Mona Lisa is to the Louvre. And Deven is Leonardo da Vinci.
Deven retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs as a software programmer for the nation's VA Medical Centers. After which he worked as the Trail Team Supervisor for the Ross County Park District. He has also served on the Buckeye Trail Association's board of trustees while supervising the Buckeye Trail from Tar Hollow thru Pike Lake State Parks. Most recently he has maintained and built trail at Tar Hollow, Scioto Trail and Great Seal for Ohio State Parks.
He's also a musician, author and lover of all things nature. Thank you Deven for sharing your wide ranging insight and your technical expertise when we need it!
Myra Miyoshi Vick
Vice-President of the Board.
I don't have her bio yet...but trust me...she's superfly!
Seth Rankin
Native Plant and Habitat Guru
Seth Rankin received a fish and wildlife degree from Hocking College in 2009 and has served in a variety of conservation roles for state and federal agencies as well as private wildlife and land management organizations. His former professional roles include biologist and land stewardship director. He has owned and operated his own business (Conservation Contracting LLC) since 2018 where he assists landowners in implementing conservation practices on their property. He is a licensed commercial pesticide applicator, drone operator and prescribed fire manager in Ohio. In addition, he served our great country for six years as a cavalry scout in the Ohio Army National Guard.
Seth has always given more than his fair share to the community and the planet through his volunteer work and his generous guidance to those who seek it. His contributions and guidance to this nonprofit are invaluable!