Announcement from Mark Berry and Sydney Lea

April 30, 2014

Message from Mark Berry, Executive Director

Dear Friends,

I am writing today to share the news that I am leaving my role as Executive Director of Downeast Lakes Land Trust to take on a new challenge as President of the Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park.

One of the great pleasures of my eight years at Downeast Lakes Land Trust has been the opportunity to meet, get to know, and work with the many friends, supporters, and partners of the trust.

I am confident in this organization and in its ability to attract outstanding candidates to be its next leader.   The trust is financially strong and has great opportunities ahead, a skilled staff, and a strong and committed Board of Directors to manage the transition to new leadership and carry the organization forward.  For those who love the outdoors, the Downeast Lakes region of Maine is also an exceptionally attractive area to live – thanks in part to your support of Downeast Lakes Land Trust.

I will remain as Executive Director until early June, and will be working with the staff and Board to facilitate a smooth transition.  I will always look back fondly on my time working for the people and places of the Downeast Lakes region of Maine.

My new position at Schoodic Institute is an exciting professional opportunity that will keep me in eastern Maine, just a couple hours away on one of the most spectacular parts of the Maine coast.  I will be back to visit, and look forward to staying in touch.

With gratitude,

Mark

Message from Sydney Lea, Board President

Dear Downeast Lakes Land Trust Supporters and Friends,

While all who have been even slightly involved with the Downeast Lakes Land Trust must be sorry for Mark Berry’s transition from his post as DLLT’s executive director to a new and exciting opportunity at the Schoodic Institute, we are equally grateful for his eight years of stellar service.  Mark has been crucial in establishing the trust’s strong reputation for careful stewardship of its land; he leaves the organization in an excellent position to thrive long into the future.

Mark Berry’s skills, his capacity to learn and to adapt to all challenges, and his congeniality– all have been exemplary, setting noble standards for the worthy successor whom, after due diligence, we are confident of finding.

Downeast Lakes Land Trust has put in place an interim management committee of Directors with extensive experience in the operation of the Trust extending back to its founding thirteen years ago.  The committee is led by Vice President and Director Lee Whitely.  I will continue to lead the campaign to complete purchase of the West Grand Lake Community Forest.  The search for a new Executive Director has begun as the Trust continues its mission.

DLLT directors, along with all who have supported and benefited from Marks’s industry and ability, will miss him sorely, but we wish him and his family great happiness and success as he takes on his new endeavor.

Sydney Lea, President

Downeast Lakes Land Trust