Whitney Johnson is the Database and Donor Stewardship Administrator at Big Waters Land Trust. In this role, she manages the organization’s donor database, ensuring the accuracy of records, gift processing, and reporting. She also oversees donor stewardship efforts, including acknowledgments and engagement strategies that build lasting relationships with supporters. Whitney uses data-driven insights to support … Read more

Nilyana Rodriguez is the Digital Content and Design Specialist at Big Waters Land Trust. In this role, she creates impactful visual materials that support outreach, advocacy, and fundraising initiatives. Nilyana ensures that every piece—from event promotions to educational resources—reflects the organization’s mission to conserve land and connect people to nature. Originally from Sarasota, Florida, Nilyana has … Read more

Shalla joined Big Waters in September 2024 as Director of Philanthropy. Together with our dedicated philanthropy team, she is charged with securing the organization’s fundraising revenue required to protect land and water in Southwest Florida forever. Growing up on the banks of the Mississippi River in rural Iowa community, Shalla’s passion and respect for nature … Read more

Sam joined Big Waters in April 2018. After serving as both Special Events Manager and Marketing and Communications Manager, in April of 2023 Sam was promoted to Director of Marketing and Events. In this role, Sam is responsible for developing and executing effective communication and event strategies to increase engagement, grow target audiences, and increase … 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

Robyn Powell joined Big Waters as Controller in June 2023 after moving to Florida from Indiana. In her role, she is responsible for maintaining the financial records of the organization, analyzing results, and reporting findings to management and our Board of Trustees. Robyn is a seasoned financial specialist with a background in healthcare financial management, … Read more

Sam Peterson joined Big Waters in April 2019. He is a Sarasota native and University of South Florida graduate. Sam is property manager at our Bay Preserve Headquarters and can often be found working on the grounds to ensure they are cared for and welcoming to all. Sam also oversees the site rental process and … Read more

Dawn Lansing is a Development Officer at Big Waters. She is an experienced fundraiser and grants coordinator with a passion for nature, a strong desire to make an impact, and a dedication to protecting the special places left in Southwest Florida. Her personal and professional lives have been shaped by the deep need to commune … 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

Christine P. Johnson is a fifth generation Floridian who shares the Big Waters’ vision for the human and natural words of Southwest Florida to flourish together. After earning a BS in Business Administration from the College of Charleston and an MBA from the University of Florida, Christine worked in management and consulted with Fortune 500 … Read more