I had the good fortune of meeting Christi over ten years ago during the formation of Project Apis m. (PAm).
As the ED of this newly formed honey bee science organization I don't think she knew what she was in for.
Trying to get a room full of commercial beekeepers to agree on anything, stay on task and out of the weeds was a challenge, I heard the term "herding cats!" a few times. She used every tool in her box, but patience, endurance and a firm guiding hand Christi got the job done. She helped build PAm into the foremost honey bee research funding organization it is today. She had a gentle manner of bridging the different aspects of the US honey industry, most recently with her guidance on the Honey Integrity Task Force. I send my deepest condolences, and can't imagine the sadness and loss for Christi's family. Christi will truly be missed by all.
Doug Hauke
Commercial Beekeeper
Doug, Thanks for reaching out and sharing your memories of Christi. We appreciate all who knew and respected her in the field, and realize what a difference she made. We are thankful to you and all who have shared your memories of her, and thank you for your sympathy.