Staff Members

Bella Witherspoon

Programs Director | Social Scientist

Bella has always been drawn to the intersection of people, data, and landscapes. Whether managing operations for restoration programs or developing systems to support disaster recovery, she enjoys turning complex challenges into practical, actionable solutions.
At SOFRC, she manages operations and financials, supports core programs, and leads social science research to inform collaborative decision-making. She works closely with government agencies, nonprofits, and communities on wildfire risk mitigation and land management projects. She is currently collaborating on a longitudinal public perception survey on wildfire risk and forest management that will inform the implementation of these kinds of projects.
In the past, Bella taught a course on environmental systems and community dynamics at Southern Oregon University. She has eight years of experience with social science research and two years of experience in nonprofit work. Her specialties include data tracking, financial systems, and partnership development to improve program effectiveness. Bella holds a Master of Science in Environmental Policy. Outside of work, she loves exploring local trails, experimenting with new baking recipes, and working on creative projects. She is always looking for ways to connect big-picture thinking with practical solutions to create lasting impact.