Director
Jessica Ingram
Jessica brings to the team over two decades of professional background in higher education and administration, both with a private arts college and with a large public research university.
She has experience in strategic planning for high level university projects and in founding and directing community-based nonprofit programs. Jessica also has experience in leading a large municipal public art program and works as an artist collaborating meaningfully with local communities.
She has authored two award winning books and has been exhibited and published internationally.
STEAM Outreach and Education Program Director & Resident Astronomer
Billy Teets, PhD
Billy is the STEAM Outreach and Education Program Director, and Resident Astronomer. He engages the community in astronomy through Dyer’s monthly public events such as Telescope Nights, Open Houses, lectures, and concerts; leading summer science camps and field trip groups; going out into the community and delivering science content to outside groups, businesses and area schools; and developing materials for distribution in-house and online.
Around the observatory, Billy develops and maintains many of the one-of-a-kind exhibits and oversees maintenance and preservation of the observatory’s astronomical equipment. He also actively collaborates with Vanderbilt’s physics and astronomy department and teaches intro astronomy classes.
Billy graduated with a B.S. in Physics from Austin Peay State University (2004) and a Ph.D. in (astro)physics from Vanderbilt University (2012).
Facility Manager
Nathan P. Griffin
Nathan first came to Dyer in 2009 as a remodeling subcontractor and fell in love with the place at first sight. He soon found a role at the observatory that utilized his multitudinous building and problem-solving skills as well as guest relations experience honed during his decade at Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado. Nathan is charged with maintaining Dyer’s magnificent grounds and buildings in addition to facilitating our public and private events.
With a lifelong passion for music, Nathan spends his free time composing, playing, and singing for enthusiastic crowds around the region. The success of Dyer’s Bluebird on the Mountain concert series is due in large part to his musical and technical expertise.
Events & Marketing Specialist
Paige Johndrow
Paige leads marketing efforts for Dyer and supports the planning and execution of its public and private events.
She brings more than a decade of experience in marketing and event management, with a background in higher education and agency settings. Paige has led high-profile university and community events and developed integrated marketing campaigns across digital and print channels.
She is passionate about creating welcoming, memorable experiences that bring together people from various backgrounds and foster meaningful connection.