Jill Kunsmann

Jill is the Observatory's Secretary. Her family has lived adjacent to the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for over 65 years. The dramatic changes to the land, and the bird species it supported, served as a catalyst to landscaping decisions for her property. The fundamental focus is fixed on providing habitat that supports birds, bats, and pollinators.

Always interested in horticulture, she served as the President of the Wisconsin Unit of the Herb Society of America, and as its Education Chairman, and was actively involved in the development of the annual Herb Fair and Plant Sale held at Concordia University.

Jill spent many years teaching in Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design's Liberal Studies Department while serving in a variety of art administrative positions. She retired in 2018 from the the position of Director of MIAD's Outreach Department, and now enjoys expanded hours in the garden, more time with her grandchildren, and is at the beck and call of Midge, her Gold-capped Conure. Jill became involved at the Observatory in 2016 as a volunteer. She is the chair of the Development, Outreach and Events committees.