Meet the Crew: Alex Roman Gonzalez & Meredith Whitehead, new board members

Adventure Crew welcomed two new faces to our board of directors in 2024: Alex Roman Gonzalez and Meredith Whitehead.

"The outdoors has always been a source of joy, healing and connection for me," Alex said.

Growing up in Caracas, Venezuela, a vibrant city surrounded by mountains near the Caribbean Sea, she spent her days climbing trees to pick mangoes, riding bikes, roller skating and exploring her grandparents’ farms.

"My friends and I even started nature clubs as kids, catching butterflies, collecting tadpoles and sneaking lizards into our classrooms," she said.

As she got older, her big brother, Cesar Alejandro, inspired her to try backpacking and camping. "Those experiences sparked a lifelong passion for outdoor adventures," she said.

It's no surprise, then, that Adventure Crew's mission of connecting city teens with nature and each other resonates with Alex.

"I’m a firm advocate for the healing power of nature and movement," she said. "Everyone, regardless of their background, deserves access to outdoor activities and the opportunity to build connections through shared experiences. Adventure Crew’s work not only provides these opportunities but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among teens, which is incredibly powerful."

Alex learned about the Crew through her work in sustainability and community engagement. After working in TV production in Caracas, she relocated to Cincinnati in 2012 and pursued a master’s degree in urban sustainability at Xavier University. In her time here, she's worked in the Cincinnati Zoo’s "Overnight Adventures" educational program; at Xavier, first in the Office of International Students and ESL Program, followed by a role in the Academic Sustainability Department; and at the University of Cincinnati, where she serves as head of the Sustainability Department. In that role, she leads programs, sustainability reporting and the university’s Climate Action Plan. She's also the sustainability coordinator for PigWorks, leading the Green Team and helping divert waste from landfills.

"Sustainability and education have been central themes in my career, and I’m thrilled to bring that experience to Adventure Crew," she said.

Alex lives in Newtown with her wife, Tara, and their three-month-old son, Theo. "I’m already dreaming of the outdoor adventures I’ll share with him," she said. "While Tara prefers to stay 'bug-free,' she’s just as excited as I am to travel the world with Theo and create unforgettable memories as a family. Whether it’s exploring new cities, relaxing on a beach, or introducing Theo to the wonders of nature, we’re looking forward to all the adventures ahead."

Among Alex's favorite outdoor activities are backpacking, camping and biking. She loves starting her day with an early morning walk with the younger of their two dogs, Lilo (Mila, their older dog, opts to sleep in).

When she's not working or spending time outdoors, she enjoys spending time with her parents, who recently moved to the U.S.; cooking; jamming to music while commuting or while biking, and advocating for access to fresh, nutritious food for all. "I’m deeply passionate about sustainability and believe that a good meal, movement, sunshine and fresh air are the ingredients for a wonderful day," she said."

Like Alex, Meredith Whitehead grew up spending a lot of time outdoors, particularly camping, fishing and boating.

"I know how valuable those experiences can be," she said. "I love that Adventure Crew gives young people the chance to explore the outdoors, build confidence and develop new skills."

Longtime board member Mark Wherry introduced Meredith to the Crew.

"I joined the board because I wanted to help expand Adventure Crew’s reach and impact," she said. "My background in community development and partnerships allows me to support the organization in meaningful ways."

In her current role, she serves as founder and CEO of The Cedric Group, a consulting firm focused on helping communities grow through collaboration and strategic planning.

Although she's originally from Akron, Meredith has called Cincinnati home for quite some time. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati and a former soccer player, she has lived in East Walnut Hills and Over-the-Rhine and now resides on Cincinnati's West Side with her boyfriend and her dog. She still loves the outdoors, especially if there's a beach or body of water involved.

"I love traveling, giving back, and helping drive change in the community," she said.

We're so grateful to have both of these amazing women on our board. Welcome to the Crew!