Delaware Nature Society names interim executive director

Joanne McGeoch has been named interim executive director for Delaware Nature Society, founded in 1964 and known for its work in education, conservation and advocacy.

This appointment is part of the transition following the June 30 retirement of Executive Director Anne Harper.

McGeoch has been a successful fundraiser and nonprofit executive for over 18 years. She joined DelNature in January 2015 and was promoted to deputy executive director in 2018. McGeoch has expanded the organization’s fundraising to include a robust a portfolio of grants and major gifts during her tenure and has led successful concurrent major gift campaigns to underwrite capital, capacity building, open-space protection and regenerative agriculture. She has a strong background and core understanding of DelNature’s mission and vision.

DelNature President Eric Brinsfield said, “When we learned of Anne’s retirement, the board was pleased to appoint Joanne McGeoch as interim executive director. Serving as both the chief development officer and deputy executive director for the last three and a half years, we were fortunate to have a strong leader ready to step into the role. Joanne and Anne have spent the last few months working closely together to prepare for this transition. The board will continue to work closely with Joanne as we conduct a national search.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to support Delaware Nature Society through this important transition. While our board searches for our next executive director, I will ensure we continue to do what we have always done best – connect people with nature to improve the environment through education, conservation and advocacy,” said McGeoch. “There has never been a more exciting and relevant time to advance our important work to protect and improve the environment, and we’re determined to identify a candidate with a passion for our mission and a bold vision for the future.”

Delaware Nature Society’s board of directors is conducting a national search for its next executive director. The search will continue until the best candidate is identified.

For more information, go to delawarenaturesociety.org.