Board of Directors

Jack Schofield, Chair

  • Yankeetown, FL

Jack spent his early years growing up and exploring the outdoors in Connecticut. Living just a few miles from Long Island Sound, he was naturally drawn to the water and the wilderness. His desire to experience more led him to the Boy Scout Philmont Scout Ranch, where he achieved the 50-mile award and ignited a lifelong passion for hiking.

Upon graduating with a BS from York College of Pennsylvania and serving six years in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, he began a career in the retail apparel industry, eventually becoming VP of Merchandising for the Men’s Division of Bon-Ton Stores.

After 18 years in retail, an opportunity to change his career path led him to become COO of a wholesale apparel company. This transition involved him in the sales and manufacturing of career apparel uniforms, eventually ending his 42-year career in the apparel industry with School Apparel Inc.

Retirement has brought the opportunity to serve as the Mayor of Yankeetown, FL. Prior to becoming a board member of the FTA, he served as Chairman for the Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve and President of Withlacoochee Aquatic Restoration.

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Tom Daniel, Vice Chair

  • Pensacola, FL

I’m currently an FTA Activity Leader, Trail Coordinator (TC), chainsaw certified, member of FTA’s Trails Development and Planning Committee (TD&PC) and trails lead for organizing the 2026 IDIDAHIKE. Other FTA positions held include Trailmaster, Section Leader for both Eglin and Nokuse, FTA Board member, served on the FTA Board’s Governance and Finance Committees, VP Membership, VP Trails and Chair of TD&PC. While VP Trails and TD&PC Chair. I oversaw two FTA Trail Manual revisions (2016 and 2025). During terms as VP Trails and TD&PC Chair I became knowledgeable of Florida Trail (FT) Gap issues and attended Florida National Scenic Trail Coalition Meetings. I have organized and lead TC Meetings and Forums. As a sawyer, I most recently participated in the Hurricane Idalia and Helene clean-ups along the Suwannee River. I participated in reestablishing the FT along Econfina Creek after Hurricane Micheal.

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Charles "Buzz" Scott, Treasurer

  • Sarasota, FL

Robert Charles Scott, who commonly goes by Charlie or his trail name "Buzz", was born in Ocala, grew up in Jacksonville, and has lived permanently in Sarasota since 1979. Charlie has been self-employed for the last 30 years as a Construction Consultant and is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified General Contractor. Charlie has degrees from the University of Florida and the University of North Florida. His work specialties are dispute resolution and expert testimony in construction litigation. His talent is explaining technical issues to a wide range of individuals. Charlie became familiar with the Florida Trail as he began adventure racing over 20 years ago. Although most of his FT experience has been either adventure racing or as a trail runner athlete, he has been a member of the FTA for several years and has begun to enjoy more camping and hiking. Charlie is also a Florida State Park volunteer and an active member of the Friends of Myakka River State Park. Charlie is currently very active with outdoor sports, and makes his best effort to camp with his wife on a monthly basis, preferably at a Florida State Park. Charlie is not retired, but does have a fair amount of time schedule latitude since he is self-employed. He believes he can be a valuable participant for any organization and is already familiar with FTA activities, goals, and needs. He has spent his entire life traveling throughout the state of Florida and is well acquainted with its geography, cultures and history.

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Tim Horkan, Secretary

  • Jacksonville, FL

Tim was born in Miami, grew up in Tallahassee, and has lived most of his life in West Palm Beach and Jacksonville. He is a graduate of the University of Chicago (AB ’83) and University of Florida (JD ’87). He has worked as a general corporate attorney at two large law firms, a leading wireless telecommunications company, and three different state/local government entities. He is now happily retired in Jacksonville with his wife Lisa.

Tim began hiking the Florida Trail in 2019 and completed it in 2024. He also hiked the OTL Trail, the ECT Connector from Key West, and the Blackwater River Trail. He continues to be amazed at the quality of the trails, the kindness of volunteers, and Florida's natural beauty. He intends to use his experience in law and government affairs to support the Florida Trail Association's mission, secure its long-term funding, and reduce some of the road walks.

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Karl Byars, Director

  • Milton, FL

Karl is a retired Army Officer and currently licensed as a Florida Nurse Practitioner. He has been a life-long hiker and an active member of the Western Gate Chapter since 2018 where he volunteers 1-2 times a week on average (approx 3- 5 hours per session). He received his National Sawyer Certification Card (April 2019) and also helps his chapter by trail mowing, lopping, tree removal, bog bridge-building and repair, campsite cleaning, and equipment transport.

His background and commitment provide an ideal foundation for advising the Association’s missions in these areas: public health awareness and safety; skills training (especially in emergency first-aid response); budget management; trail work planning and implementation; equipment requirements; and personnel and volunteer recruitment and oversight.

He received a BSN from the University of Mississippi and an MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He graduated and received a Nurse Practitioner certification from Johns Hopkins University Post-Masters/Nurse Practitioner in Baltimore.

While on active duty he held clinical and management positions in Germany, Hawaii, Maryland, and Kansas. He served on the medical transition team for Presidential inaugural activities in Washington D.C. and on a special healthcare team during a Presidential European visit. After leaving the military, he worked as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in internal medicine and gastroenterology practices in Maryland and Florida. He was a Clinical NP instructor at Johns Hopkins University and Howard University in Maryland. His other interests include hiking/camping (he has done sections of the AT and FT, among others,), boating (American Sailing Association certifications: Basic Keelboat Sailing; Basic and Intermediate Coastal Cruising; Bareboat Chartering), and travel.

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David Dineen, Director

  • Palm City, FL

David L. Dineen, CFA, brings more than 25 years of investment management experience partnering with foundations, nonprofits, religious institutions, and other mission-driven organizations. He has held senior portfolio management roles at Spouting Rock Asset Management, Copper Rock Capital, Granahan Investment Management, and Pinnacle Associates, where he oversaw investment portfolios, led investment teams and managed client relationships. David holds an MBA in finance from New York University’s Stern School of Business, earned his BS from Binghamton University, and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

In addition to his professional career, David has a strong record of community involvement, serving on finance and advisory committees at his local church and children’s school and mentoring students through the CFA Institute. He serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster at Troop 822 in Palm City and firmly believes that the outdoors is the best "classroom" to learn life skills and build confidence. A Florida resident and Wilderness First Aid–trained volunteer, he values stewardship, responsible governance, and long-term sustainability.

David is committed to supporting sound financial oversight and advancing the Association’s mission to protect, maintain, and promote the Florida Trail for future generations.

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Eric Emery, Director

  • Malabar, FL

Eric grew up in central Florida. While in Boy Scouts he completed hi 50 mile hike in Ocala National Forest. 40 years later he would read an article about the Florida National Scenic Trail and realize he had hiked part of it. In that time he would spend 28 years in the Navy, then five years owning a wine shop in Washington state before becoming a Resident Volunteer in the park system. He did not start thru hiking until he was 55. His first attempt at the FT was a disaster and he barely made it to Billies Swamp Safari. That was in 2017. Since then he has completed five FT thru hikes; 2018, 2020, 2021 and his 21/22 YoYo to celebrate turning 60. In 2021 he completed both sides of Orlando and Lake Okeechobee as well as the OTLHT and the Blackwater connector. He has also attended FT work parties in both the Ocala and Osceola National Forests.

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Robert Fenwick, Director

  • Fort Walton Beach, FL

I currently serve as the Land Resources Manager for Okaloosa County, FL, and hold degrees in Marine Science (Bachelor’s, Eckerd College) and Natural Resource Management (Master’s, Utah State University). Land and wildlife conservation is the theme of my 30-year career, and I have project experience starting from the initial assessment and inventory phases, through planning and budgeting, to assembling partners and developing management actions to conserve specific properties. My state experience also includes the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. I am an avid hiker with experience on sections of the Appalachian Trail (GA), the Continental Divide Trail (CO), and, more recently, the Florida Trail. Through both work and personal interest I have enjoyed getting to know several members of the Choctawhatchee chapter and am impressed by their passion and professionalism. I aim to become more involved in FTA at both a local and statewide level and am eager to continue to bring my personal passion for trails and professional experience to assist our current and future endeavors.

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Jerrie Lindsey, Director

  • Tallahassee, FL

Jerrie Lindsey is a veteran conservation leader with a career in wildlife management, public access, and trail development. As the former Director of Public Access and Wildlife Viewing at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, she oversaw statewide initiatives that expanded recreational opportunities on public lands. Jerrie’s strengths in strategic planning, public engagement, and nonprofit leadership enhance the board’s capacity to guide the organization effectively. Her proven ability to forge conservation partnerships and support land acquisition brings valuable momentum to the Florida Trail Association’s mission.

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Pamela McDonald, Director

  • Gainesville, FL

Pamela McDonald is a Certified Public Accountant with more than 20 years of experience in accounting and financial management, including recent work in the government contracting sector supporting organizations operating in highly regulated environments. She has served as a liaison between multiple regulatory agencies to achieve a common goal. Her professional background emphasizes strong stewardship, accountability, and sustainable organizational practices that support long-term mission success.

Outside of her professional career, Pamela is deeply connected to Florida’s natural landscapes and spends much of her free time hiking, swimming in Florida’s springs, and exploring parks across the state. This native Floridian’s relationship with the Florida Trail comes from a genuine love of time spent outdoors and an appreciation for the trail’s role in protecting wild spaces, making them accessible to multiple generations, and thwarting the over-development occurring throughout the state.

Pamela believes the Florida Trail serves as both a recreational resource and an essential pathway for conservation, education, and community connection. She is passionate about preserving Florida’s unique ecosystems for future generations and supporting thoughtful stewardship that balances conservation and expanded public engagement.

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Christopher Stevens, Director

  • Chuluota, FL

As an active member of the Florida Trail Association, Christopher has gained valuable insights into the challenges faced and opportunities provided by the Florida Trail. He envisions a future where the Florida National Scenic Trail is not only preserved, but is also inclusive and welcoming to individuals of all backgrounds and identities. As an outspoken advocate for outdoor recreation and protection of the natural lands in our state, Christopher feels it would be an honor to serve as a member of the Board of Directors. His background is rich in volunteerism and community service, particularly in terms of conservation. He co-created the blog Sunshine State Seekers in 2018, which quickly morphed into a social media presence where he frequently promotes nature-minded efforts throughout Florida. This involvement with the community has provided many opportunities to become directly involved with various organizations that Christopher believes are making a big difference. On a local level, Christopher is a board member of the Seminole County Parks and Preservation Advisory Committee, and regularly assists with county maintenance activities, having adopted a nearby park. He attends trail maintenance with the Florida Trail Association every chance he gets and has participated with the Central Florida Chapter for several years, currently serving as the Vice Chair. He is a board member of the Florida Trail Hiker’s Alliance, and a registered volunteer with the Florida Forest Service and State Parks. Christopher is also an active member of the Florida Native Plant Society and Springs Council. As a writer for Floridahikes.com, he applies his communication skills to inspire others to connect with nature and seek out the many opportunities for hiking and exploring our beautiful state. Christopher provided extensive research to the fourth edition of the Florida Hikes Florida Trail Guide and continues to work with them to keep the Florida Trail section of the FarOut app as up to date as possible. Christopher is confident that his passion, experience, and dedication make for an outstanding candidate for the Florida Trail Association Board of Directors. He looks forward to the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of the Florida Trail Association.

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Eugene Stoccardo, Director

  • Orlando, FL

An engineer and policy advocate, Eugene Stoccardo brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and community leadership to the board. He has worked on trail reroutes, safety protocols, and land negotiations, and has played a key role in shaping local policy—most notably leading the passage of 13 charter amendments in Orange County. Eugene’s hands-on experience in trail maintenance, combined with his focus on safety, accessibility, and sustainability, makes him a strong voice for infrastructure improvement and inclusive trail experiences.

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Jennifer Stike, Director

  • Port Saint Lucie, FL

I’ve worked in the medical field as a medical staff professional for over 30 years and as part time faculty at a university for 3 years. I was a girl scout growing up and even lived at girl scout camp in the Florida Keys while my parents were the caretakers. I always loved being outdoors as a child and I’ve never lost the desire to get out there and go. I found the Florida Trail by accident on a hike and saw a sign that said this trail is maintained by volunteers. I decided to reach out to see what volunteer opportunities there were and started signing up for events. Since becoming a member of FTA, I’ve served as a co-coordinator for outreach and also as secretary for my local chapter.

I try to volunteer with as many other chapters as possible for either outreach or trail maintenance to build relationships and help increase awareness of the trail.

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Ryan Worthington, Director

  • Green Cove Springs, FL

Ryan W. is a Navy Veteran, where he was an aviation electrician, but now works full time for the Department of Defense in aviation maintenance.  As a Florida Master Naturalist, Ryan W. enjoys promoting the conservation of Florida’s natural resources and preservation of its historic places primarily by raising awareness through social media, Youtube, and a weekly podcast called ‘The Florida Madcaps’. Ryan W.’s nonprofit experience comes from volunteering as a member of the Communication Advisory Board of the Florida Springs Council, where he uses social media to promote activism and awareness of the issues affecting Florida’s springs and waterways in addition to outreach events.  Ryan W. also serves on the Board of the Friends of Gold Head Branch State Park where he promotes and supports the park through events and fundraising. Ryan W. lives in rural Florida, where he experiments with sustainable living and hobby farming and enjoys traveling the entire state of Florida and exploring its natural areas, usually by hiking or paddle craft. Ryan W. has enjoyed hiking the FNST in many areas of the state and has seen first hand how it allows hikers to experience some of the best natural environments that Florida has to offer.  Ryan W. has participated in trail maintenance events and was a guest speaker for the FTA Central Florida Chapter. He would like to be able to serve and work to improve the FNST experience available to hikers as well as expand awareness of the benefits provided by the trail as a Board of Director. 

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Laura Youmans, Director

  • Tallahassee, FL

Laura Youmans is an attorney and policy specialist with a background in environmental and land use law. She brings deep experience in legislative advocacy, board governance, and public land planning. Laura has successfully advanced conservation initiatives by facilitating stakeholder collaborations and securing resources for land preservation. Her expertise is especially valuable in addressing trail connectivity, supporting real estate negotiations, and advising on strategic policy development. Laura’s thoughtful, mission-driven leadership supports the board’s long-term vision and operational resilience.

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