We’ve got a small (but mighty!) group of people working out of HQ, doing everything from development to programs to relationship building.

James Hanusa, New Initiatives

James has been with the Project for two years working on special projects, program development, and ecosystem engagement. His background includes technology sales and alliances, social media strategy, urban economic development and an MBA in Global Management from Thunderbird.

Heather White, Program Manager

Over the last 14 years, Heather has focused on strategy, operations and partnerships for media and creative services organizations. She has been brought on board to manage programming and operations for Burning Man Project.

Ben Thompson, Project Manager

Ben is a tech industry entrepreneur who leveraged his experience as a design group manager at Microsoft to found and manage two successful internet services organizations, Saltmine Creative and Lux. A Burning Man attendee and volunteer for many years, Ben has been involved in Gate, Greeters, and a number of on-playa art projects. A lover of both the high desert and the Burning Man ethos, Ben is is committed to seeing the Project succeed in his support of the Fly Ranch Project.

Lara Hopwood, Administrative Associate

Lara has over 10 years of experience managing office environments and supporting executives.  She has worked as both an executive assistant and board liaison and enjoys creating and refining management systems for streamlined productivity.  Lara is also a fire dancing instructor and has been teaching this art since 2008.  On playa, she has organized Burning Man theme camps dedicated to gifting fire dancing instruction and performance and has participated multiple times in Fire Conclave.