Mesa Urban Garden is a nonprofit community garden powered by a dedicated board of passionate Mesa residents. Together, our team brings a diverse mix of talents, experiences, and ideas to the table—each person contributing in their own way to help the garden grow and thrive. This incredible project wouldn’t exist without their hard work and heart.
Special thanks to Drew Trojanowski, Ryan Winkle, and Liz Paulus for bringing the original MUG proposal to the table and helping turn the vision into reality.
Are you interested in a board position? Just contact David Crummey, 602-370-4459.
Mesa Urban Garden Board of Directors:
David Crummey – Chairperson
A founding board member of MUG, David brings experience from Tucson, Tempe, and Guanajuato, Mexico. He’s deeply rooted in community work—serving on the board of the Mesa Arts Academy (a K–8 charter school), co-founding the RAILMesa neighborhood group (now RAIL CDC), and sitting on the Southeast Maricopa Regional Council of First Things First. His passion lies in bringing people together and building community in public spaces.
Laurie Blitz – Garden Coordinator & Treasurer
Wearing many hats at MUG, Laurie handles everything from financial oversight to daily garden operations. She’s the friendly face many gardeners know best—organizing workdays, onboarding new members, and sharing her know-how on best practices for desert gardening. Her goal: to help everyone, from beginners to seasoned green thumbs, grow with confidence.
Andrew Douglas
Andrew brings thoughtful insight, steady dedication, and a commitment to MUG’s mission. He supports ongoing projects and helps cultivate a welcoming, sustainable space for all who visit.
Marco Meraz
Marco blends his love of food, people, and place to help connect MUG with the wider community and local culture. His outreach work strengthens MUG’s role as a gathering place for learning and connection.
Jaime Glasser
An artist, community activist, and former veterinarian, Jaime has deep roots in Downtown Mesa. She’s passionate about helping MUG reach its potential as a vibrant, inclusive space for growing food, friendships, and ideas.
Elaissia Sears
Serving on the MUG board since 2017, Elaissia brings a strong commitment to community empowerment and sustainable living. She is the co-founder of Urban Farming Organics, and a champion of local food systems. In 2019, she was elected Justice of the Peace, where she continues to serve with dedication. Her passion for civic engagement and sustainable living helps guide MUG’s mission and inspire community involvement.
Donna DiFrancesco – Ex-Officio
A long-time advocate for sustainability in Mesa, Donna provides guidance and city partnership support to help MUG flourish. Her expertise in environmental programs helps connect the garden with valuable resources and opportunities.
Special Thanks to Our Committed Volunteers & Partners
Mesa Urban Garden thrives because of the dedication of our community. These incredible volunteers step up to take on special tasks and keep the garden growing strong. Their time, energy, and talents make all the difference — thank you!
Garden Specialty Team Member Volunteers: Kevin Oneil, Chris Russell, Damian Robles, Jackie Ryder, Rick Galloway (our carpenter extraordinaire), Eunice & Taylor Bluebaugh, Beverly Klemme, Darla Lammers, Greg Morris, Steve Priebe, Scott Seehorn, and Kate Horlacher.
Community Partners: We are especially grateful to our friends and neighbors at República Empanada. The Meraz family, Jinette, Edmundo, Marco, and Louisa have been true partners from day one — helping shape the garden from the first shovels in the dirt, supporting (and hosting) events, sharing power and restrooms, and, of course, serving up the best food when we need to refuel or take a break.
Together, our volunteers and partners keep Mesa Urban Garden flourishing.
Honoring Our Past Leaders
Mesa Urban Garden has been shaped by many amazing individuals over the years. We’re grateful for their time, energy, and heart.
Former Board Members and Team Leaders:
Drew Trojanowski, Ryan Winkle, Liz Paulus, Cynthia Williams, Desi Einerson, Terri Rettig, Amy Busch, Terry Benelli, Mandy Tripoli, Jason Thatcher, Catherine Crowley (The Herb Lady)*, Chris Russell, Amy Osowski*, Miyuki Ketchum, and Ed Haugen. *In memoriam