Fontenelle Forest Announces Executive Leadership Change
Fontenelle Forest (the Forest) announces today that Merica Whitehall, Executive Director, has resigned. The board of directors would like to thank Whitehall for her nearly five years of service as the Executive Director at the Forest. Under Whitehall’s leadership, a long-term master plan and a short-term strategic plan was developed. These documents will forever shape the Forest. The board is grateful to Whitehall for her vision and service and wishes her all the best in her future endeavors.
Effective immediately, Fontenelle Forest’s 2021 Board President-Elect, Shannon Mullen O’Keefe, will resign from the Board and will serve as Interim Executive Director. Mullen O’Keefe has a deep passion for Fontenelle Forest, extensive experience on the Board, and decades of practice in workplace management and leading teams. Mullen O’Keefe holds a Master’s Degree in Law and Diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. She has lived, worked, and managed teams all over the world, and has published work on Gallup.com and Medium.com. Together with the executive board and board committees, Mullen O’Keefe will work to make this transition as smooth as possible for all staff, donors, members, and visitors of the Forest.
In accordance with the board-approved Executive Director Succession Plan, Fontenelle Forest will be conducting a search to find a new Executive Director. The board will be looking to find the best individual to work with the devoted staff and help the Forest achieve the vision of being both a national leader in environmental stewardship and education, as well as the region’s premier nature center. The job announcement will be shared soon.
We appreciate your understanding and support during this time of transition. For questions, please call 402-731-3140.