Our Executive Team
Sticky Rice Magazine is a publication created by currently serving Peace Corps Volunteers. It in no way represents the opinions or thoughts of the United States Government, Royal Thai Government, Peace Corps, or Peace Corps Thailand.
Gretchen Evans
Hi! I’m an enthusiastic soccer coach disguised as a YinD Volunteer in the Mukdahan province. I studied at Texas A&M University and love to run, read, and write. If you need a book rec, I’m your gal!
Editor in Chief & Online Editor, 136 YinD
Ella Spear
I am from a small coastal town in Maine and graduated from Colby College last year. Now I live in Sisaket, a province in the northeast of Thailand on the Cambodian border. Although the hot weather has been a big change from my previous life as a collegiate ski racer, I feel so lucky to be able to live and serve in Thailand with the Peace Corps.
Managing Editor, 136 TESS
Historian, 136 YinD
Holly Lingenfelter
Holly is the name and Youth in Development is the game. Serving in Nakhon Phanom, in the Northeastern region of Thailand. When not exploring the Mekong River or missing my home state of Michigan, you can most likely find me practicing yoga and fitness, crafting up a storm, daydreaming about a myriad of adventures, and overthinking how to sum up who I am in 2-3 sentences.
Meet Our Full Staff!
Writing Team
Multimedia Director, 136 YinD
Jess Smith
Hey, I’m Jess! I’m a recent grad from the University of Texas with a degree in psychology, a minor in ASL, and a certificate in creative writing. Whether it’s guiding white-water rafting trips, running marathons, or packing my bags to live on the other side of the world to become a Youth Development Volunteer, I’m always up for an adventure. Right now, I’m soaking up every moment in my new home, where you’ll find me biking through rice paddies and trying to learn more Thai (with varying degrees of success).
My name is Oliver de la Torre. I’m originally from Houston, Texas, but I’ve spent most of my life living abroad, primarily in Mexico City. Joining the Peace Corps has been a long-time goal inspired by family and friends, and I’m excited to explore Southeast Asia, work in education, learn a new language, and immerse myself in a new culture—especially the world-class food.
136 TESS
Oliver de la Torre
With a love for the arts, culture, and the enriching experiences of travel, I am an avid writer who draws inspiration from the world around me as much as from my own personal experiences. My work reflects a thoughtful and observant approach to the complexities of life, often with a focus on the “little things” that keep it interesting. I have a BA in Communications and multiple certifications from my time as a marketer, before my Peace Corps service.
136 YinD
Tal Carmel
Tucker Strauch
I am from Vail, Colorado. I graduated from Colby College with a degree in Government and Global Studies. I am a YinD volunteer currently serving in Sisaket province of the Isaan region.
136 YinD
Creative Media Team
Do we have a template? What do other people got chopped up in their lil bios? Do they need to know my dietary preferences?
Chaa Thai Podcast Host, 136 TESS
Garrett Schliep
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m an English teacher in Ratchaburi Province. I’m half Thai and grew up moving around the world, so serving here has given me the chance to connect with my heritage in such a meaningful way. I’m loving every second of it! Outside the classroom, you’ll find me taking photos around the neighborhood, playing guitar, or (most likely) doing laundry.
Chaa Thai Podcast Host, 136 TESS
Sam Parrish
Zoe Ziegler
Hey everyone! I’m Zoe. I’m an English teacher in Chaiyaphum province. I hail from the great land of potatoes (Idaho) but love to travel as much as I can and have spent time in South Korea, Ireland, and Costa Rica. I’m an avid concert-goer and movie lover, and on my days off in my village you might find me out playing badminton or reading in a nice shady spot.
Chaa Thai Podcast Production Manager
136 TESS