The Changing Tides of Leadership: A Conversation with Our VPs

rick.savage • August 14, 2024

Dear Wetland Supporters:



The Board of Directors provides guidance and oversite to the organization.  Board members serve 3-year teams and every year one-third of the board changes.  I thought it would be good hear hear from our outgoing and in coming Vice Presidents about their hopes for the organization.


Heather Clarkson has been a board member since 2018 and served as the Vice-President for the past 3 year. Luckily for us, she is going to stay as a general board member for another term.   

Heather Clarkson

I am deeply honored to have had the  opportunity to serve as Vice President of the Carolina Wetlands Association. The  opportunity to contribute to an organization dedicated to preserving and restoring such vital ecosystems has been both humbling and energizing. The wetlands of the Carolinas are not merely natural wonders; they are the lifeblood of our communities, providing invaluable services such as flood control, water filtration, and wildlife habitat. The combination of knowledge, passion, and resources within our organization is a powerful force for positive change. I am confident that Carolina Wetlands Association will continue to make a significant impact through education and restoration efforts. By raising awareness of the importance of wetlands and inspiring stewardship, we can foster a generation of environmentally conscious citizens and revitalize degraded ecosystems across the Carolinas. 

                                                   - Heather Clarkson

Emily Barrett has only been on the Board of Director for six short months, but did not hesitate to accept the nomination as Vice-President.

Emily Barrett

From a very early age, I've been fascinated by the life that wetlands hold. I've sought out as many experiences as I could to be in and learn about wetlands. Now, as a seasoned environmental professional I see Carolina Wetlands Association as a pathway to educate others about the value of wetlands and to share my joy and fascination with  others. Wetlands are special places, and I see the coming year as being an opportunity to work together as an association to protect them, bring them to life in people's imaginations, and to harness the power of community to provide more stability to the organization. I will encourage us all to "say yes" when asked to help out!


                                                     - Emily Barrett

I hope you feel as confident as I do about the leadership of the Carolina Wetlands Association. If you see Heather, please thank her service as our third Vice-President and and welcome Emily Barrett as our fourth Vice President.


So as you explore wetlands near you, please think about how you can help your organization. Wetland protection is at an all time low and we need you support to continue the fight.


Yours,

Rick Savage, Executive Director

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