John A. Zikias is a Lead Steward and chair of the Citizen Science Program for the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in Scottsdale, Arizona. John began volunteering for the Conservancy in October 2019 after a successful business career in the convenience store industry. During his business career, John worked with retailers around the world to understand consumer behavior and needs. Using this information, he was able to help organizations large and small to develop programs and product ranges to meet these needs and drive profitable growth.

Since his retirement, John has used his experience from more than 35 years in senior leadership positions to support the Conservancy’s efforts. He works with the Conservancy’s Parsons Field Institute to engage steward volunteers as citizen scientists to conduct ecological research to inform long-term natural resource management and inspire stewardship of the desert.

In addition to his work in the Citizen Science Program, John is involved in several other Conservancy programs focused on engaging and educating visitors, providing safe recreational opportunities, and leading the volunteer stewards.