Executive Director of Friends of the Bay to Leave

By Anita Mallon

The Friends of the Bay (FOB) is looking for a new Executive Director, as current ED Heather Johnson is leaving this week, after more than six years on the job.

“It has been an honor working for Friends of the Bay and its mission to protect this beautiful estuary and watershed,” stated Johnson. “I am thankful to the board, donors, staff, volunteers and supporters for all they have done to help make FOB the effective organization it is. I will miss everyone but will certainly not be a stranger.”

Johnson is leaving the position to become executive director of the Hallockville Museum Farm in Riverhead.  Assistant Director Christine Suter will be serving as interim executive director while the board conducts a search for a new permanent executive director.

“Heather did an amazing job for our organization,” stated FOB President Bill Bleyer. “She developed strong relationships with government and community leaders, helped with fundraising to bring the organization to a healthy financial position, increased our visibility and outreach, and ushered in many new programs. We will miss her and wish her luck in her new job.”

Johnson, who previously served as director of the Northport Historical Society, will remain at FOB until January 5th, after which time she will join FOB’s advisory board.

 Anyone interested in the executive director position can contact FOB board secretary Eric Swenson at FOBjobsearch@gmail.com.

The Friends of the Bay is an environmental conservation and advocacy group, located in Oyster Bay, dedicated to preserving, protecting and restoring the ecological integrity and productivity of the Oyster Bay/Cold Spring Harbor Estuary and the surrounding watershed. For more information, visit friendsofthebay.org.