Janice Murdoch, our new Chair of the Board of Trustees, examines a spring migrant  banded at the Rushton Woods Preserve.

Mark Ledger served as Chair for three years and has been a Trustee since 2007.

At our annual meeting in December the Trust welcomed Janice Murdoch as the incoming Chair of our Board of Trustees. At the same time a fond tribute was made to outgoing Chair, Mark Ledger, following three years of exemplary and effective leadership.

"Our past board Chairs have played a critical role in guiding the evolution of the Trust to becoming the vibrant and successful organization that it is today. From Peter Strawbridge to Doug Walker to Mark Ledger each chair has made a significant impact in furtherance of our mission and we are deeply grateful to each of them". said Bonnie Van Alen, President and Executive Director. "And now we have the great fortune to have Janice Murdoch taking on the Chairmanship and committing her experience, skills and passion to carry on this tradition of wonderful leadership".

"Willistown Conservation Trust is a local, community land trust with a remarkably far-reaching impact," Janice Murdoch said recently. "I've seen firsthand how this organization uses its growing reservoir of open space to change lives, inspire others and serve as a model by delivering innovative programs and initiatives that go far beyond the Willistown area, and I am excited to be an integral part of moving those initiatives forward."

Janice has been a member of the Trust's Board of Trustees since 2009 where she has ably served on numerous committees. Most recently she has served on the Executive Committee, as Secretary of the Board, and Chair of our all important Land Protection Committee. An avid equestrian who grew up riding in the area, Janice has deep roots in Willistown and a passion to preserve and share this special place with all generations.

Mark Ledger, our outgoing Chair, has served as a valued Trustee for seven years, including the past three years as Chair. Being an avid outdoorsman and fly-fisherman, the Trust presented Mark with a handmade bamboo fly rod and best wishes for happy days of fishing. Assuming, of course, that he will have time to fish - given our expectations for his continued role as a Trustee.  

We extend our deepest gratitude to Mark and a warm welcome to Janice.  

Find the complete listing of the board of directors here .