Since the inception of the Hitchcock Woods Foundation, its Board of Trustees has been comprised of local citizens dedicated to protecting and preserving the Hitchcock Woods in a natural and historic state for the public. Collectively, the trustees have shouldered the tremendous responsibilities that come with the stewardship of the Woods.
The staff works cohesively to manage the diverse needs of the Woods itself, its visitors, and those who graciously support the Foundation in these efforts.
Born in Aiken, Dr. Mary Katherine Philipp spent much of her childhood in Hitchcock Woods – on foot and horseback. While her career goals in medicine took her away from Aiken for a while, she returned to her hometown to raise her three children, all of whom, like their mom, grew up in the Woods. She finds her role as Executive Director of the Foundation an opportunity to give back to the community and this magical forest, both of which have meant so much to her and her family.
“It’s a privilege for me to be a part of the Hitchcock Woods Foundation team which provides the highest level of stewardship to this ecologically diverse forest,” she says. “It is here for everyone to enjoy,” she assures, adding, “It’s an amazing outdoor classroom for all ages.”
An Aiken native, Bennett Tucker grew up exploring every inch of Hitchcock Woods. He split his time between hiking and riding with friends. While in high school and college, he was a summer intern at the Foundation.
In 2006, he joined the Foundation’s staff, eventually becoming the Woods Superintendent.
In addition to his vast knowledge of the Woods, Bennett has numerous first responder certifications, as well as structural and wildland firefighting certifications. As a South Carolina Certified Prescribed Fire Manager, Bennett has been instrumental in supervising our prescribed fire program.
Eric Grande’s fondest childhood memories revolve around Hitchcock Woods. “I was so lucky to grow up here and have the Woods as my backyard,” he says. Shortly after graduating from USC Aiken in 2012 with a biology major and geology minor, Eric joined the staff of Hitchcock Woods.
After five years, Eric left his position at the Woods to help his brother start a business, but the Woods were never far from his mind.
In 2022, the Foundation was thrilled to have Eric return as the Woods’ Assistant Superintendent. He loves the Woods every bit, if not more, than he did as a child.
Heather Levy joined the Hitchcock Woods staff late in 2025. Her background in ornithology and longleaf wiregrass ecosystems is a great fit with the mission and goals of the Woods. In this newly created position, she will be developing education and outreach programs for all ages and backgrounds.
Heather will focus on engaging current and future generations in the Woods’ stewardship. To facilitate expanded educational initiatives, HWF is in the process of planning an Environmental Education Center.
Nancy Johnson joined the Hitchcock Woods team in 2022 to assist the Foundation with marketing and communications and work on special projects with the Executive Director. She loves to walk her dogs or ride in the Woods and derives equal pleasure from seeing others do the same.
“It is so rewarding to work for an organization with a mission I strongly believe in and with people who are so passionate about the Woods’ past, present, and future,” she says.
Karen Peters grew up in nearby North Augusta. After her husband was transferred to numerous other locations, they had the opportunity to return to Aiken to raise their three children.
Karen came to the Foundation in 2019 in what was to be a temporary position assisting with the annual Aiken Horse Show. She was such a good fit, the Foundation hired her full-time. Karen’s vast knowledge of Aiken is beneficial not only to the HWF, but also to newcomers and visitors to the Woods.
Blair joined the Woods’ staff in 2024, immediately after Hurricane Helene. Our team was in desperate need of help and asked him if he would work with them temporarily. “I know the whole Woods team from working right next to them on the stormwater project for a few years. I was there the next day.” Blair proved to be so valuable to the team that he was hired permanently as Woods Resource Steward.
