On October 1st I’ll become Green Foothills’ new Executive Director. Having had the privilege of serving this organization for 12 years—7 years as Legislative Advocate and 5 years as Director of Impact—it is an honor to start a new chapter in Green Foothills’ history. With a talented team, a committed board, a growing donor base, and a diverse and broad set of partners working to protect local nature, we are primed for the work ahead.

I’m excited about the future. As incoming Executive Director, I bring to bear deep experience with our Advocacy and Leadership programs to guide Green Foothills into its next phase. I understand how our expertise, persistence, partnerships, and community engagement are vital to achieving victories. As an advocate, I used these tools to protect thousands of acres of open space and farmland in Santa Clara County. As Director of Impact, I helped reimagine the Leadership Program and mentored participants, and guided staff in adopting a data-driven, results-oriented approach that has helped us gain increased institutional funding.

Going forward, our advocacy work will continue undaunted. And our nascent initiatives—the Upper Pajaro Watershed, San Jose Urban Greening, and Healing in Nature programs—provide opportunities to scale our impact. We will also explore the potential for a Leadership Program Spanish-language-only cohort and robust alumni stewardship to drive greater outcomes.

As I prepare to step into the Executive Director role, I am grateful for the past decade working alongside Megan Fluke. She is leaving Green Foothills well-positioned to advance our work for climate resilience and equitable access to nature close to home. One of her most important achievements has been to bring an equity lens to the organization to build a more diverse and inclusive conservation movement, and I am committed to continuing that work.

We have kicked off a new Community Building fundraising initiative to further this work and in recognition of the impact of Megan’s leadership. Please join me today in making a donation of $50, $100, $500 or more in support of the initiative.

I also hope you will join me on September 24 at Nature’s Inspiration to wish Megan well and usher in a new chapter at Green Foothills. 

Together we will greet the future with purpose and strength.