CitiesAlive 2026 Advisory Committee

The CitiesAlive Advisory Committee plays a vital role in shaping the vision and success of the conference. Comprised of respected leaders and experts from across the green infrastructure industry, the committee provides strategic guidance and hands-on support throughout the planning process. Members collaborate to develop a dynamic and relevant conference agenda, identify and secure industry partners, support fundraising efforts, and help expand the event’s reach through strategic marketing. Their collective expertise and professional networks ensure that CitiesAlive delivers high-quality programming, meaningful partnerships, and a conference experience that reflects the evolving priorities of the green infrastructure community.

Co-Chairs

Chris Brunner, Partner | New York Green Roofs

Christian Mahlstedt, GRP, GRIMP, Founder and President | Ginkgo Sustainability

Steven Peck, GRP, GRIMP, Hon. ASLA, Founder and President | Green Roofs for Healthy Cities

Committee Members

Zach Matiko, Architectural Sales Rep | W.R. Meadows

Melissa Enoch, Assistant Commissioner | New York City Department of Environmental Protection

Dustin Partridge, Director of Conservation and Science | NYC Bird Alliance

Shino Tanikawa, Executive Director | NYC Soil and Water Conservation

Zach Walliulah, Senior Sales Representative | American Hydrotech

Linda Velazquez, Founder | Greenroofs.com

Adam Schatz, Senior Associate | New York Green Roofs

Rick Kile, Director of Green and Amenity Business | Siplast

Nate Griswold, President and Owner | Inhabitect LLC

Armando Villa-Ignacio, Research Assistant | Colorado State University

To join the CitiesAlive 2026 Advisory Committee, please email Eric Durnford, General Manager, GRHC at edurnford@greenroofs.org.