Our Team

Matt Taylor

Deputy Director of Environmental Stewardship

Matt Taylor is Deputy Director of TDEC’s Division of Stakeholder Engagement and is responsible for overseeing the Office of Environmental Stewardship and Small Business Environmental Assistance Program. Matt holds a Master’s in Geography from the University of Arkansas, an MBA from Tennessee State University, a Bachelor of Science in Resource and Environmental Studies from Texas State University, a Bachelor of Science in Urban Studies from Tennessee State University, and a certificate in Sustainable Environmental Management from UC Berkeley. In addition to his educational background, Matt has a range of professional experience in environmental sciences and public policy from his time working with the U.S. Forest Service—Rocky Mountain Research Station, TDEC—Division of Solid Waste Management, and as a Senior Policy Analyst with TDEC’s Policy Office. In his free time, Matt can be found chasing his young children around his yard or a neighborhood park, kayaking, or planting trees. 

You can reach Matt by email at matthew.k.taylor@tn.gov or by phone at 615-979-2449.

Brandi Bomar-Moody

Radon Education & Outreach Coordinator

Brandi Bomar-Moody supports the Tennessee Radon Program, Tennessee Used Oil Grants, and statewide recycling initiatives for household batteries, oil, paint, antifreeze, and electronic waste (BOPAE). She coordinates activities, delivers public presentations, and develops educational materials to raise awareness about environmental health
impacts related to radon exposure and the proper recycling of proper recycling of hard‑to‑recycle household items, and materials. Brandi holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Middle Tennessee State University and a Master of Science in Sustainability from Lipscomb University. In her free time, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her three sons and her husband.

You can reach Brandi by email at brandi.l.bomar@tn.gov or by phone at 615-289-1531 

Caleb Powell

Industry Outreach Coordinator

Caleb works to support the Tennessee Green Star Partnership and the Tennessee Sustainable Spirits Program through coordinating and hosting webinars to connect industry experts with members to improve sustainable operations throughout Tennessee manufacturing and distilling industries. He became interested in sustainability at a young age and has prior experience in the recycling industry, event coordination, and energy conservation. Additionally, Caleb is the current Board President of the Tennessee Recycling Coalition. He has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sustainability and Energy Technology and a Master's in Occupational Health and Safety from Middle Tennessee State University. He also holds his Energy Management Diploma from North Carolina State University. Caleb is energetic and enthusiastic about all aspects of life and would love to share any information about his organizations and programs with you.

You can reach Caleb by email at caleb.powell@tn.gov or by phone at 615-920-9429.

Chris Pianta

Office of Cooperative Marketing Manager

Christopher Pianta is responsible for overseeing the Office of Cooperative Marketing for Recyclables and managing the Tire Environmental Act Program grant. He has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Tennessee, and a Master's in Environmental Engineering from Vanderbilt University. Chris spent the early part of his career consulting on solid waste and remediation projects. Since transitioning to his current career with the State, Chris has developed both expertise and a passion for sustainability, particularly in the field of waste reduction and energy efficiency. In his free time, Chris enjoys playing tennis and golf, as well as hiking the trails in our State Parks.

You can reach Chris by email at christopher.pianta@tn.gov or by phone at 615-852-1513.

Crystal Warren

Business Programs Manager

Crystal Warren oversees the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) and Pollution Prevention (P2) program. Both programs focus on providing assistance to Tennessee’s businesses that are subject to environmental regulations. Assistance is provided in the form of permitting and compliance help, educational webinars, and informational newsletters. Prior to joining the Office of Environmental Stewardship, Crystal worked in the Division of Water Resources – Stormwater programs. Her desire to educate businesses about environmental stewardship began in graduate school while obtaining her Master's in Environmental Toxicology from the University of Mississippi. In her free time, and much to the dismay of her neighbors, Crystal can be found attempting to convert her very suburban ¼-acre homestead into a sustainable garden-farm. 

You can reach Crystal by email at crystal.warren@tn.gov or by phone at 901-664-1076.

Donovan Grimwood 

Small Business Environmental Ombudsman

Donovan Grimwood is part of the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP). Donovan serves as the Small Business Environmental Ombudsman, acting as a liaison between the EPA and small businesses, while advocating for their interests during regulatory processes. Additionally, Donovan provides clarity and guidance to small businesses, helping them navigate regulations and understand compliance requirements. He enjoys the opportunity to help small businesses stay in compliance, as well as the challenge of learning about each new business to provide the right support. He is active in the National Steering Committee of State SBEAPs, serving on nearly all subcommittees. In 1996, he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tennessee Technological University.  Donovan has received national recognition in 2024 for the EPA Administrator's Award for Outstanding Accomplishments by a State Small Business Environmental Assistance Provider in Providing Technical Assistance to the Small Business Community, and in 2025 for the National Steering Committee of the State SBEAPs Karen V. Brown Leadership award. This award honors their long-term achievements in leadership, innovation, education, dedication to environmental protection, and highlights their efforts to build strong local/state/federal partnerships for small business compliance assistance. Outside of his career with TDEC, he is a head coach in the sport of fencing with Cumberland D'Escrime Fencing Club.

You can reach Donovan by email at donovan.grimwood@tn.gov or by phone at  629-266-1862.

Ginna McWhirter 

Small Business Education and Outreach Coordinator

Ginna McWhirter’s role in the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program is to connect with small businesses across Tennessee and provide information and training about environmental regulations. Since joining the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation in 2020, she has worked in the Divisions of Water Resources and Solid Waste Management. She attended Rollins College in Florida and received her Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. After hours, Ginna enjoys reading, gardening, and playing soccer. 

You can reach Ginna by email at ginna.mcwhirter@tn.gov or by phone at 901-713-4626.

Heather Weldon

Administrative Manager

Heather Weldon provides administrative support for the Division of Stakeholder Engagement, which includes the Office of Environmental Stewardship, the Office of External Affairs, and the Office of Recovered Materials. She manages the budget, assists with time and labor, coordinates travel, and serves as the Procurement Officer for the division. She also processes certifications for the Green Energy Production Facilities and the Pollution Control Equipment programs. She previously worked for the Division of Fiscal Services, as an Accounting Technician. Heather has worked with the Department of Environment and Conservation for 29 years. In her spare time, she loves to research her family’s genealogy.

You can reach Heather by email at heather.weldon@tn.gov or by phone at 615-761-4250.

Kathy Glapa

Business Operations Manager

Kathy Glapa plays a key leadership role in guiding the strategic business operations of the division. She is responsible for managing the division’s budget, ensuring fiscal accountability, and supporting long‑term planning efforts. Kathy oversees compliance with federal and state grant requirements, coordinates the pursuit of federal funding opportunities, and manages the development and administration of grants and contracts across the division. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Austin Peay State University and a Master of Science in Health Services Administration. In her free time, Kathy enjoys camping, swimming, and spending time with family and friends.

You can reach Kathy by email at kathy.glapa@tn.gov or by phone at 615‑795‑3539.

Kelsey Davis

Community Programs Manager

Kelsey Davis coordinates the Go Green With Us Program, which is a partnership between TN State Park staff and visitors to incorporate sustainable practices throughout our park system, such as waste reduction, energy and water conservation, habitat and resource protection, and education and outreach. She also works to promote waste reduction and awareness across the state through the Zero Waste TN program. This program works to educate residents, businesses, and institutions about the importance of properly managing and reducing waste by hosting sustainable events and workshops and conducting education and outreach. Her primary responsibilities are providing technical assistance and training regarding waste reduction, food waste diversion and composting, and zero waste practices. Kelsey’s prior experience and training includes solid waste management and recycling, green building, and ecological economics. She also holds the TRUE Zero Waste Advisor credential. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics from the University of Memphis and a Master's in Sustainability from Lipscomb University. In her free time, Kelsey can be found hiking in our State Parks, tending to her garden, or sipping tea while reading a good book. 

You can reach Kelsey by email at kelsey.davis@tn.gov or by phone at 615-812-7854.

Kristen Privette

Food Waste Program Coordinator

Kristen Privette coordinates the Get Food Smart TN Program, Tennessee’s primary initiative dedicated to reducing food waste. She supports residents, businesses, organizations, schools, universities, and local governments by providing resources, support, and strategic connections. Kristen also leads Tennessee’s participation in National Food Waste Prevention Week, working with partners across the state to raise awareness and drive meaningful action. In addition, she publishes The Catalyst Newsletter, inspiring Tennesseans to take practical steps towards environmental stewardship. Before joining TDEC, Kristen taught middle and high school science in Tennessee public schools. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Roanoke College and a Master of Education in Instructional Practice from Lipscomb University. Outside of work, Kristen enjoys making pottery at her local community studio, taking long walks, and exploring new restaurants.

You can reach Kristen by email at kristen.privette@tn.gov or by phone at 615-969-9936.

Larry C. Christley

Data and Market Lead

Larry Christley works in the Office of Cooperative Marketing to support Tennessee’s efforts to improve the economies of scale and develop system efficiency in Tennessee’s recycling economy. He has worked for the department for over 23 years. Larry has a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management from Middle Tennessee State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Tennessee at Martin. He holds certifications in Lean Six Sigma (Yellow Belt) and Customer Experience. Outside work Larry enjoys reading and family history.

You can reach Larry by email at larry.christley@tn.gov or by phone at 615-981-3357.

Mark Valencia

Special Programs Coordinator

Mark Valencia works with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Office of Environmental Stewardship, where he oversees the Tennessee Sustainable Spirits Program and supports U.S. Department of Energy grants related to manufacturing. His work focuses on technical assistance, outreach, education, and promoting sustainable practices across Tennessee. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Environmental Health from California State University, San Bernardino and is a Professional Energy Manager through the Institute of Energy Professionals. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, spending time outdoors, and brewing beer.

You can reach Mark by email at mark.valencia@tn.gov or by phone at 615-934-5826.

Paul Pleiman

Problem Waste Consultant

Paul Pleiman oversees Tennessee’s Waste Tire Program, providing technical assistance, education, and outreach to local governments, industry partners, and other stakeholders across the state. His work also supports broader waste reduction initiatives, with an emphasis on strengthening partnerships, improving access to program resources, and helping communities identify practical solutions for managing challenging waste streams. Paul previously served as a Solid Waste Environmental Scientist with TDEC, conducting regulatory inspections and providing compliance assistance to solid waste facilities throughout Middle Tennessee. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Sustainable Science from Lipscomb University and a Master of Science in Biology from the University of Arkansas. Before beginning his career in environmental protection and sustainability, Paul served six years in the United States Air Force and is a combat veteran. Outside of work, he enjoys bowhunting, hiking, and spending time outdoors with his family.

You can reach Paul Pleiman by email at paul.pleiman@tn.gov or by phone at 615-829-3698.

Vaughn Cassidy

Industrial Waste Management Coordinator

Vaughn works to promote and support the TN Green Star Partnership, which is the department’s premiere sustainable industry leadership program, as well as the Pollution Prevention Program. His primary responsibilities are providing technical assistance and facilitation for sustainable Tennessee businesses and industry regarding waste management and reduction. Vaughn works to connect and support manufacturing businesses across Tennessee to take excess production materials and repurpose them into beneficial packaging or other products, ultimately keeping them out of the landfill. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology from the University of Tennessee at Martin. In his free time, Vaughn enjoys the outdoors, hunting, and pursuing physical fitness. 

You can reach Vaughn by email at vaughn.cassidy@tn.gov or by phone at 731-431-7856.