Meet Our Board members

Margaret Gainer

A Bayside resident for 45 years, Maggie has a deep appreciation for her neighbors and the beauty of the Jacoby Creek Valley. In her consulting business and in directing HSU’s Office for Economic &  Community Development, she specialized in securing grant funds, grassroots organizing and leadership development. Co-founder of Zero Waste Humboldt, Center for Environmental Economic Development, current Vice-President of the Northcoast Environmental Center, and Bayside Corners’ Board President, Maggie has been a consultant in nonprofit best management practices and community-building strategies for many Humboldt organizations. 

Christine Beresford 

Chris has lived in Bayside for 13 years, and is Bayside Corners’ Treasurer. She has provided leadership at the Northcoast Environmental Center for over 35 years and has served as Board Treasurer since 2011. With her years of experience working at California State Parks, Chris brings significant financial, administrative and organizational experience to Bayside Corners. Active in California Native Plant Society, she and her husband, Richard, share a passion for propagating and protecting native plants.

Rebecca Nordquist

Rebecca serves as Bayside Corners’ Board Secretary and liaison with Mistwood Educational Center, the primary user of the Bayside Temperance Hall. As a Mistwood Lead Teacher/Co-Director, her passion for teaching and her community is inspiring. She and her husband have lived in Humboldt County for 29 years, raising their four children.  She is excited to work toward the goal of creating a beautiful community space for Bayside and Humboldt County.  

Denise Jones

Denise is a longtime Humboldt resident with deep family ties and a strong interest in the history of our special region. She is a life-long artist/entrepreneur with special interest in architecture and appreciation for historic buildings. She has actively volunteered in many different fields, including teaching and organizing enrichment programs at the elementary school level. Denise volunteered at the Bayside Community Hall (Grange) and served on its board for many years. She was active in fundraising events for the building repairs and improvements during its period of great growth, restoration, and change. Denise brings to the Temperance Hall board her years of practical experience in building design and construction and is excited to rejoin the placemaking and beautification efforts in Bayside at the Corner of Old Arcata and Jacoby Creek Roads. 

John Taylor

John brings a strong background in project management and organizational efficiency to his role as Vice President of Bayside Corners. With a focus on streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, he ensures the organization runs smoothly and effectively supports its mission. John is dedicated to preserving Bayside’s historic character while building meaningful connections within the community. 

Dana Utman

Dana is a longtime Bayside resident, nature photographer, and passionate advocate for conservation. With a degree in Resource Planning and Interpretation from Humboldt State University and years of experience as a park interpreter with California State Parks, Dana brings a wealth of environmental knowledge to Bayside Corners. Dana also serves on the boards of the Sierra Club North Group and the Northcoast Environmental Center, contributing to vital environmental advocacy efforts. Dana’s commitment to community and conservation reflects his deep connection to Bayside’s natural beauty and historic charm.

Will Suiter

A Bayside resident and talented photographer, Will has a keen eye for capturing the beauty of the Jacoby Creek Valley. In addition to his creative work, he provides invaluable IT support for local organizations—often tackling tech challenges with the ease and intuition of a true digital native (and we’re endlessly appreciative!). Will’s blend of technical expertise and artistic vision makes him a vital part of Bayside Corners’ efforts to preserve and celebrate the community’s historic charm.

Kelsey Parker

A Humboldt State University Studio Art graduate and Bayside resident, Kelsey is a marketing professional with expertise in business strategy, branding, and digital communications. Specializing in graphic design, website development, and social media management - she helps organizations effectively connect with their audiences. As a Bayside homeowner, Kelsey values the historic charm and unique character of the area, bringing her strategic mindset and community focus to support Bayside Corners in preserving and promoting the beauty of the Jacoby Creek Valley.