Originally from Kansas City, Kat attended Eckerd College, where she joined the sailing team while studying Marine Biology on the college’s pet-friendly, beachfront campus. A life-changing semester abroad in Costa Rica sparked her interest in Tropical Ecology and led her to shift her focus to environmental science and biology.

Her career has consistently centered on community and environmental stewardship. She began with Johnson County Parks & Recreation before serving as a STEM Program Developer. Kat later joined the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) as a Field Technician studying environmental change and was eventually promoted to Senior Botanist, leading teams of early-career biologists and conducting research in the Konza Prairie—also the inspiration for her dog’s name.

Kat shared a favorite quote from Theodore Roosevelt’s The Man in the Arena, which she humorously noted she first heard during a “meditative spin class.”

Today, at the Savannah Tree Foundation, Kat leads strategy and programs, advances education and leadership initiatives, and helps shape partnerships and policies. Her work currently focuses on the Trees Across America Grant, a $1 million urban and community forestry initiative that will support the planting of 1,600 trees. She also founded the Chatham Canopy Corps—what she affectionately calls “her baby”—which trains emerging professionals in arboriculture.

On a personal note, Kat met her husband Lance through competitive sailing. In a fun detail, he even 3D-printed the leaf-shaped cookie cutters used for the cookies on the tables. Fittingly, their wedding carried a sustainable theme. Kat shared how much she enjoys home projects and the life she and Lance have built in Savannah—and how meaningful it is to see Metro members equally committed to caring for the community.

• Carrie Friend serves as the Regional Philanthropy Officer for the American Red Cross of Southeast Georgia. She is an accomplished philanthropy and human services professional with more than 17 years of experience advancing mission-driven work across diverse communities.

  Carrie began her career in the Chicago area, where she held several roles in the social services sector, including six years as a Case Manager supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. This early work laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to advocacy, service, and community impact.

  Motivated by both personal and professional goals, Carrie eventually relocated to Savannah, Georgia. She joined the American Red Cross as an Account Manager in Blood Services, where she leveraged her background in client advocacy and community engagement to strengthen donor relationships and help drive successful blood collection initiatives throughout the region.

  After gaining additional experience outside the organization, Carrie returned to the Red Cross as a Regional Philanthropy Officer. In her current role, she brings a relationship-centered approach to fundraising, cultivating meaningful partnerships that support and expand the organization’s humanitarian mission across Georgia. Known for her integrity, adaptability, and deep dedication to service, Carrie continues to make a meaningful impact throughout the communities she serves.

  Sponsored by Jessica Pedigo and George Seaborough.

GRSP PRESENTATION: Peyton Olivia Ownes

Peyton Owens, a 16-year-old sophomore at Woodville Tompkins High School, shared exciting news with the club as she prepares for a life-changing opportunity next year—traveling to South Korea.

Peyton is an outstanding student, currently holding the highest GPA in her class. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the debate team, and has already completed two years of Korean language studies. Outside of academics, she also has a unique passion for reptiles.

During her presentation, Peyton shared her “dream board” for her time in South Korea. She hopes to live in an urban area while also exploring the country’s rich history, especially the historic sites she has studied in school. She is particularly excited about visiting Jeju Island and, as a self-described foodie, can’t wait to experience the culture through its cuisine.

Peyton expressed heartfelt gratitude to the club for supporting her journey and helping make this opportunity possible.

Support Peyton:
Community members who would like to support her trip can make a donation and receive a letter from South Korea, or hire Peyton for babysitting or tutoring.

Venmo: @Peytonownes727 (last four of phone: 5530)
CashApp: $PeyOwens727

Stay in touch:
Email: peytonowens37@gmail.com