Maine Coast Heritage Trust President Jay Espy Selected as First Executive Director of Sewall Foundation
Topsham: (September 22, 2007) - Maine Coast Heritage Trust announced today that its long time president, Jay Espy, has accepted a new position as the first executive director of the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation and will begin work there in January 2008. Mr. Espy has been with Maine Coast Heritage Trust since 1985, and has served as its president since 1988. Maine Coast Heritage Trust's Board Chair, Tom Ireland, offered his congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Espy in his new endeavor, "We're thrilled for Jay and for the Sewall Foundation. Together they will surely add to the legacy of conservation success in Maine." Mr. Ireland continued, "For 22 years, Jay put his heart and soul into Maine Coast Heritage Trust and established it as a national leader in land conservation. For his superb leadership, and for all of the wonderful places in Maine that he has helped save for future generations, we are deeply grateful."
Maine Coast Heritage Trust will conduct a national search for its new president, and Mr. Espy will continue at the Trust through November. "Maine Coast Heritage Trust is an extraordinary organization," said Mr. Espy. "I feel blessed to have worked these many years with a truly visionary Board of Directors and a team of the most talented land conservation professionals in the nation." Mr. Espy continued, "The opportunity to serve the Sewall Foundation as it pursues new goals is very exciting. And, I know I am departing Maine Coast Heritage Trust at a time when the organization is healthier and stronger than ever."
During Mr. Espy's tenure, Maine Coast Heritage Trust greatly accelerated its land protection efforts along Maine's entire coast, bringing its total conserved acres to more than 125,000, including 270 entire coastal islands. In addition, Mr. Espy was instrumental in establishing the Maine Land Trust Network, a program of the Trust that helps build capacity in local land trusts throughout Maine.
About Maine Coast Heritage Trust
Maine Coast Heritage Trust is a statewide land conservation organization dedicated to protecting land that is essential to the character of Maine, its coastline and islands in particular. Since 1970, more than 125,000 acres, and 270 entire coastal islands have been permanently protected. For more information, contact Richard Knox, Director of Communications at 207-729-7366.
About the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation
Elmina Brewster Sewall of Kennebunk, Maine established the foundation in 1983. The mission of the Sewall Foundation is to support conservation of the natural environment and the well being of animals and human beings, primarily in Maine. Through its giving, the foundation seeks to make a significant impact, inspire the generosity of others and empower those who share its vision. Further information concerning the foundation's plans will be announced in the coming months through the Maine Philanthropy Center and other organizational and media outlets.
Contact: Richard Knox, Director of Communications, Maine Coast Heritage Trust (207) 729-7366
