Meet the Board
Carl Chesick
President
Beekeeper, geologist, and environmentalist, Carl founded the Center for Honeybee Research in his search for the definition of normal, healthy bee colonization. With a mission to sustain pollinator survival, the ...(read more)
Terri Lechner
Vice President
Dr Terri Lechner is an experienced beekeeper with over eight years of hands-on expertise, making her a valuable member of the Center for Honeybee Research Advisory Board. She also serves on BeeCityUSA Asheville&...(read more)
Tricia Johnson
Secretary
With a background in school social work, Tricia applies her experience to the education of youth, clubs, and the public on the importance of bees to the ecosystem and ultimately the world’s food supply. She help...(read more)
Randy Lehman
Treasurer
Randy is the Treasurer for the Center for Honeybee Research. He’s a beekeeper of several years and it was his love for the bees that enticed him to learn more about them and become involved with the Center...(read more)
Jaik Smith
Director
Affectionately referred to as “Jaik of all trades,” his contributions to the Center and community are widely appreciated. A passionate cyclist and professional cyber security engineer, he finds balan...(read more)
Noemi Olah
Director
Noemi is the Webmaster for the Center for Honeybee Research, and a beginner beekeeper. She started as a volunteer at the Center in 2022 after moving to Asheville with the goal to start beekeeping. Under the tute...(read more)
Rebecca Robertson
Director
Rebecca is a veteran beetender & involved in all things honeyfied. She resides in Asheville NC. She’s the Director of MayanMeliponaBee.org. They are a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation, operating in the Yu...(read more)