Justin serves as Chief Program Officer at Big Waters Land Trust, where he supports the organization’s efforts across land conservation, public policy, and community engagement. In this role, he contributes to land acquisition initiatives, assists in advancing advocacy at the state and local levels, and works alongside the team to support outreach, education, and land … Read more
Ray Vinson joined Big Waters as Land Stewardship Manager in November 2025. He grew up in Tampa, spending time with his family in beautiful places like Cayo Costa and Myakka River State Park. After graduating from University of South Florida with a bachelor’s in environmental science and policy he joined Florida State Parks AmeriCorps, where … Read more
Sarah joined Big Waters in September 2024. In her role as the Youth Education Manager, she provides incredible nature based experiences for the diverse youth of Southwest Florida. An environmental educator for over 21 years, Sarah has worked to share the wonders of our natural world at zoos, aquariums, and parks across the country. She … Read more
Brooke joined Big Waters in August 2024 as Director of Land Protection. She grew up in Fort Myers and developed her deep and abiding love of all things South Florida in the Caloosahatchee and Gulf of Mexico. Brooke earned a bachelor’s in environmental studies from the University of California Santa Barbara, and served in the … Read more
Esmeralda joined Big Waters in August 2022 as a Land Steward. She works with our land stewardship manager, Lee Amos, to conserve and steward land across Southwest Florida. Born and raised in Manatee county, Esmeralda ventured to the far northern reaches of North Carolina to earn a degree in Environmental Science & Policy at Duke … Read more
Sarah joined Big Waters in May 2023. As Community Education Manager, she creates engaging experiences that help people of all ages form connections with nature. Sarah grew up in Jupiter, FL, and moved to Manatee County in 2010 to attend New College of Florida. Sarah graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies in … Read more
Connie joined Big Waters in February 2021. In her role as the Director of Community Engagement, her responsibilities include overseeing special event management, community education, and relationship development with the community, donors, and volunteers. Connie lived in Hawaii for 15 years where she was truly able to appreciate and connect with nature. She graduated from … Read more
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