Meet the Team: Deputy Director Lisa Hallo

Each month, we introduce you to a member of the Upstate Forever staff through a few rapid fire questions. This month, get to know Deputy Director Lisa Hallo.

Why is Upstate Forever's work important to you?
My husband Jeff and I moved to the Upstate about 15 years ago. Back then it was just the two of us, plus our 90-lb yellow lab, Marley. A lot has changed since that time. We now have three wonderful kids — Cooper, Ashlyn, and Bridger — and a brown lab mix named Cadi (short for Acadia).

I distinctly remember my first visit to the Upstate. I was immediately struck by the area's natural beauty — the mountains, lakes, rivers, farms, and forests. Upstate Forever fights every day to ensure that my kids, their families, and all future residents can enjoy the same beauty I did on that first visit. I feel truly honored to work in a job where I am paid to protect the natural wonders that make this area so special.  

What does a typical work day for the Deputy Director look like?
Ha! There is truly no typical day. In part, that's why I love my job!

How long have you called the Upstate home? What brought you here?
My husband Jeff and I moved to the Upstate in August 2007 when he took a job at Clemson University. I was thrilled when I was able to land a job at Upstate Forever just a few months later. We now live in Pickens County near Clemson. 

Where’s your favorite spot in the Upstate?
There are so many places I love — Lake Jocassee, Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve, Table Rock, and the list goes on and on. But my daily go-to is the Clemson Forest. 

Who do you look up to?
While I have been with Upstate Forever, we have had two Executive Directors — Brad Wyche (Founder) and Andrea Cooper (current ED). I look up to them both. They are different in so many ways, but similar in that I believe they were the exact right leader at the right time for this organization. 

Is there a motto, mantra or slogan that drives you?
Don't sweat the small stuff. Keep your eyes on the prize. 

More about Lisa

Lisa Hallo joined Upstate Forever in 2007 as a Project Associate for the Clean Water Program. After several years in that position, Lisa became Land Policy Director, before finally assuming her current role as Deputy Director.

Before coming to South Carolina, Lisa worked for several years as a Program Director at the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps in northern Vermont, and another few years prior to that at various environmental jobs across the country. Her educational background includes a BS in Magazine Journalism and an MS in Environmental Studies.

In her free time, Lisa loves to travel, jog, hike, garden, spend time with her family, and explore new places in the Upstate.