OSPREY, FL (March 12, 2026) — Big Waters Land Trust is pleased to announce the addition of two new staff members, Ray Vinson, Land Stewardship Manager, and Molly Rabin, Database and Donor Stewardship Administrator, along with the promotion of Tianna Boswell-Porter to Director of Marketing and Events. These team updates strengthen the organization’s continued commitment to protecting land and water for the benefit of people and nature across our region.
Ray Vinson joined Big Waters Land Trust in November 2025 as Land Stewardship Manager. A Tampa native, Ray developed an early appreciation for Florida’s natural landscapes through time spent exploring Myakka River State Park, Cayo Costa, and Looe Key. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy from the University of South Florida and began his conservation career with Florida State Parks AmeriCorps, where he gained experience in invasive plant management and prescribed fire practices.
Ray has served as a park ranger at Honeymoon Island and Rainbow Springs State Parks and later held natural resource management roles with Sarasota County, Manatee County, and the City of St. Petersburg. A certified prescribed burner, he brings extensive experience in land management, prescribed fire leadership, and restoration within urban interface environments. Ray also serves as co-chair of the Suncoast Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, supporting regional education and collaboration focused on invasive species control. In his role at Big Waters, Ray oversees stewardship efforts that protect and enhance critical habitats throughout the region.
Molly Rabin joined Big Waters in December 2025 as Database and Donor Stewardship Administrator. In this role, she supports the organization’s philanthropy and engagement efforts through database management and donor stewardship initiatives that strengthen relationships with supporters.
Originally from the California coast, Molly developed a lifelong connection to nature and marine environments that ultimately brought her to Florida. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Marine Science from Eckerd College and is a certified scuba instructor with a passion for exploring and protecting marine ecosystems. Her professional background in data and event management supports Big Waters’ ability to effectively engage donors and advance its conservation mission.
Big Waters Land Trust also announces the promotion of Tianna Boswell-Porter to Director of Marketing and Events in September 2025. In her leadership role, Tianna oversees the organization’s marketing and communication initiatives, and signature events that connect the community to Big Waters’ mission and conservation impact.
A New York native who relocated to the Sarasota area in 2015, Tianna holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Marketing Communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology, graduating magna cum laude. Prior to joining Big Waters, she served as a Procurement Buyer with Manatee County Government and previously led major program initiatives at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, supporting experiential learning and emergency assistance programs for local students. Through strategic marketing, communications, and events, Tianna helps expand awareness and support for land and water conservation throughout Florida.
About Big Waters Land Trust
Big Waters protects land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Their vital work strengthens the region’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.
