Meet the Team
Staff
Iris Nolasco | Executive Director
Iris Nolasco is a dynamic professional with over 20 years of experience in Food Systems, Nonprofit Management, and Community Development. Her diverse background includes food service, providing technical assistance to marginalized farmers, and service to her country through both AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. The Commons—a community organization close to her heart—was her AmeriCorps placement in 2007, marking a formative chapter in her commitment to service.
She holds a Master’s degree in International Environmental Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, with a focus on Business, Sustainability, and Development. She also earned a Nonprofit Management Certificate from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Western New Mexico University.
A native of Silver City, NM, Iris returned to her hometown in 2024. She enjoys spending time with family and friends—and her majestic dog, Leo.
Jennifer Metzler | Senior Programs manager
Jennifer has been part of the team at The Commons since December 2018. She is currently working with schools in Grant County to assist in improving food security through the Alimento program. She also manages our garden program and Free Neighborhood Farm Stands which provide fresh produce for community members.
Prior to her work at The Commons her career centered on health, nutrition, fitness, working with youth, and community building through a hot meal program. Jennifer has spent 31 years of her life in our community and is passionate about serving and partnering with community members in order to see social and economic change. She received her Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western New Mexico University. Jennifer enjoys being surrounded by a garden at work as well as her home and lives with her family and pets in Silver City.
Sophie Klaus | Public Relations Manager
Sophie Klaus was first introduced to The Commons as a part of a semester-long volunteer project with WNMU in Spring of 2023. In the following summer, she worked as a Summer Associate and returned as the Operations Manager that December. Since September of 2024, she has been the Executive Assistant helping share the mission of The Commons through marketing and communications. She is currently in her final year at Western New Mexico University, majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing as well as getting her associate’s degree in Graphic Design.
Maggie Billings | Operations Assistant
Maggie moved to Silver City from her hometown of Las Cruces in 2018 after graduating from New Mexico State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government. Before joining The Commons in October of 2024, Maggie worked as a political field organizer, Certified Peer Support Worker, and Health Educator across Grant County. Maggie is passionate about supporting the continuing growth of Southwestern New Mexico through public health measures like food security and community support for mental, physical, and social health. Maggie lives with her husband and three wonderful, spoiled cats and enjoys painting, knitting, and spending time outside when not at work.
Weston Metzler | Pantry Support Assistant
Weston brings several years of volunteer experience to his role as Pantry Support Assistant at The Commons: Center for Food Security and Sustainability. A proud former participant in our 2019 Rooted Kids Garden Program, Weston has grown with our organization and continues to support our mission with dedication and heart. He enjoys gardening, staying active, and spending quality time with friends, family and Freya (pictured in photo).
Tina Klassen | Kitchen Manager
Tina Klassen has an extensive background in food service and hospitality. As the former owner and operator of Millie’s Bake House, she brings over 12 years of kitchen management experience to The Commons-“Gather & Grow Kitchen”. In addition to her culinary work, Tina has served diverse populations across Grant County, including children, youth, and elders. She is passionate about creating original recipes and finds joy in nourishing others through her cooking. Tina is also proud to have been married to Garry Klassen for 40 years, and together they have raised four children.
Board
Ellen Pryor
J Brady
Ann Butler
Melanie Gomez
Tom Bates
Kim Woodard
Jeff Perez
In Memoriam of Lawrence Chavez
April 4, 1957 – March 11, 2025
Member
Served 2020–2025
Those of us fortunate enough to have known Lawrence have lost a special friend, an exceptionally kind man, and a dedicated volunteer and Board member. His steady presence, compassionate heart, and commitment to service made a profound difference in our community.
Lawrence’s kindness reached everyone he encountered — whether it was offering a helping hand at our pantries, providing thoughtful guidance as a Board member, or simply sharing a warm smile. His genuine spirit uplifted us all, and his legacy will continue to inspire our work.