Our Staff
Under the administration of Dr. Janaki R.R. Alavalapati, Emmett F. Thompson Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University, the Southern Forest Nursery Management Cooperative operates with a small staff consisting of one Director, two Research Associates, and one Administrative Assistant.
Dr. Richard Cristan, Director

Richard Cristan is an Extension Specialist and Associate Professor at CFWE, where he also holds the Regions Bank Endowed Professorship in Forest Operations. He specializes in the industrial sector of forestry and joined the faculty in 2020 after earning his PhD in Forest Operations from Virginia Tech. He also holds a BS and MS in Forestry, with a concentration in biometrics and statistics, both from the University of Tennessee.

Outside of work, Richard enjoys hunting deer and rabbits, trout fishing, and spending quality time with his family. He proudly embraces his role as “best pageant dad ever” to his 5-year-old daughter, Sadie.

Nina Payne, Research Associate

Nina has been a valued member of the Nursery Cooperative for over a decade, with her research primarily focused on nursery pesticide management. She earned a BS in Forestry from Auburn University in XXXX and recently completed her Master of Natural Resources in 202X. Before joining the Nursery Cooperative, Nina gained broad experience in both industry and consulting, deepening her expertise across the forestry sector.

Outside of work, Nina enjoys spending time with her four grown children—three daughters and a son—along the coasts of South Georgia/North Florida, and cherishes every moment with her four grandchildren.

Kelsey Shoemaker, Research Associate
Kelsey joined the SFNMC team as a Research Associate, where she plays a key role in supporting member-driven projects for the Nursery Cooperative. Originally from Ashland, Louisiana, she holds a BS in Agricultural Business and an MS in Biology from Louisiana Tech University. Her introduction to forest-tree nurseries and the complexities of regeneration began during her graduate studies under the mentorship of former SFNMC staff member Dr. Paul Jackson.
Elizabeth Bowersock, Admin. Assistant

Elizabeth has served as the administrative assistant for the Nursery Cooperative for over 20 years. She joined the SFNMC in 2004 after earning two BA degrees in History and Economics from Auburn University in 2002, and was selected from the clerical pool by then-director Dr. Scott Enebak. Though she began with no background in forestry, Elizabeth has developed a deep appreciation for the field—especially forest-tree nurseries—and is proud to support the Nursery Cooperative’s mission.

Outside the office, Elizabeth enjoys cheering on the Auburn Tigers, relaxing at Lake Martin, reading on her Kindle, and watching her two sons compete in sports.

Last reviewed: November 20, 2025
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