The Schiff Nature Preserve is a little-known gem, just down the road apiece from Morristown in the Mendhams. It comprises nearly 700 acres on a site that once housed headquarters of the Boy Scouts of America and a giant movie studio. Today it boasts some wonderful programs, from nature walks to film festivals.
Executive Director Tanya Sulikowski, an expert on timber rattlesnakes, has been instrumental in Schiff’s success; today she announced she will be stepping down this summer. This video, narrated by Bill Moyers, gives a sense of the place that Tanya has helped preserve. (A longer version is here.)
Here is Tanya’s message to friends of Schiff:
Dear Schiff Members and Special Friends,
I am writing to let you to know that just after the Summer Nature Progam concludes in August of this year, I will be stepping down as the Executive Director of Schiff.
By June of 2011, I will have spent nine wonderful years at Schiff and I am now ready to explore some new challenges. My plans are to pursue a masters degree in ecology and return to the classroom to inspire a new generation of young scientists to take an active role in improving our society.
My time here has been a gift. I have had a unique opportunity to work closely with so many of you as partners and friends to build a strong community in a very special place. I have learned so much in my time at Schiff, especially about what a group of vibrant and passionate people can accomplish while working for a cause they are so deeply committed to. I am very proud of our work together.
This leadership transition provides the impetus for Schiff to take a fresh look at its vision, goals, funding strategies, and operations and then search for an Executive Director armed with this renewed perspective. Schiff will surely benefit from the energy and enlightenment that comes with new leadership.
The Board of Trustees and I have exciting plans for the year ahead: strategic planning to keep Schiff’s work as effective as possible in these changing times; continuing to build our educational programs; the addition of new preserved open space; stewardship of our growing properties and the nurturing of partnerships within our community. I will be fully involved in this work and in the smooth transition of Schiff’s new Executive Director.
I would like to thank all of you and the Board of Trustees and staff for the wonderful support now and throughout my journey here at Schiff. I am confident that the upcoming year will be our best yet.
I hope to see you on the trails or at a program very soon.
All my best,
Tanya
