A Change of Direction

A Change of Direction

September 05, 2006

As summer turns into fall, the White River Partnership is experiencing change of its own. Annie Bourdon, who directed the Partnership for nearly two years, has moved to Burlington to pursue graduate training in non-profit management. Annie’s tenure as executive director was marked by energy and enthusiasm, and her legacy includes a new brand identity, a new office accounting system, a solid foundation of grant funding, and a laundry list of projects throughout the watershed. The Partnership will continue to benefit from the good will Annie fostered within our watershed community and the staff and board want to extend their heartfelt thanks to her. Annie, we wish you well in all of your future endeavors!

As a result of Annie’s departure, the Board hired long-time Down Stream Team volunteer, Mary Russ, to direct the Partnership’s efforts. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Mary moved to Vermont in 2000 to attend Vermont Law School’s Master of Studies in Environmental Law program. Since graduation, Mary has worked as a reporter for the Vermont Environmental Monitor, a facilitator with a management consulting company, and as a career counselor at the law school. She lives with her husband, Greg, in Royalton, and is a commissioner on Royalton’s Conservation Commission. Mary is thrilled to be the new executive director and looks forward to continuing Annie’s good work in the watershed.