Stowe Land Trust (SLT) announced today that it will be appointing Becca Washburn as Interim Director, effective August 19th. Becca will fill the position left by departing Executive Director, Heather Furman. Heather is leaving Stowe Land Trust after 10 years of service for a position as Director of the Vermont Chapter of The Nature Conservancy.
During the coming months, Becca will provide stability for Stowe Land Trust, allowing the organization to maintain its momentum. SLT’s Board of Directors has confidence in her ability to ensure a smooth and effective transition. Becca has served as SLT’s Assistant Director for the past 6 years. She has worked in non-profit management, fundraising, stewardship and land protection for nearly a decade. “We are grateful for her willingness to step into this leadership role, and together with the Board and staff, we will carry on with the important work of SLT during this transition,” said SLT’s Board Chair, Alan Thorndike of Becca’s appointment.
Leadership transitions, while difficult, are also a time of tremendous opportunity. As SLT’s Board of Directors engages in a search for a new Executive Director, they are guided by the organization’s mission to protect Stowe’s most critical natural landscapes. SLT will maintain its strong commitment to the community as it:
- Fortifies its commitment to permanent protection of the special places in the community;
- Strengthens its ability to serve as the community’s voice for land conservation;
- Reinforces its obligation of long-term financial sustainability.
“Stowe Land Trust is thankful for the community’s support and confidence in our work as we grow during this transition and well into the future,” added Thorndike. The Executive Director search process has begun. A Search Committee has been formed to find the right person to lead SLT into the next critical era of conservation work. Cover letters and resumes are being accepted from interested candidates until September 6th. In the meantime, SLT will continue to operate smoothly and remain a resource for the community.