Will Everitt has been hired as the executive director of Friends of Casco Bay after serving as the organization’s communications and development director for 15 years.
Everitt, who was the unanimous choice of the organization’s board of directors, has led the marine advocacy organization’s development and fundraising since 2008 and has served as interim director since September 2021. His strong background in environmental community organizing, communications, and fundraising makes him well qualified to lead at Friends, the board believes.
“Casco Bay inspires me. That’s why I started working here so many years ago and why it is an honor and privilege to serve as executive director,” Everitt said.
“Over the years, we have been able to accomplish so much for the health of the bay, knowing that the best solutions for clean water are also solutions for the health of our economy. A healthy Casco Bay benefits everyone who lives and works here,” he said.
“In a time of political division and environmental chaos, I am proud to say that our community includes people of all backgrounds brought together by our collective passion for clean water and this amazing bay.”
Everitt helped spearhead many major efforts at Friends of Casco Bay in recent years, including helping the organization significantly grow its membership base and successfully completing a $1.5 million campaign for the Climate Change and Casco Bay Fund. In addition to his work with the Friends, Everitt serves on the board of directors of Maine Conservation Alliance.
“For so many reasons, Will is just the person we need,” said Andrew Marsters, president of the Friends board of directors. “He is an even-keeled leader who inspires the best in our staff. He has institutional memory, political savviness, and an innate talent for building relationships. Our community and the bay are lucky to have him.”
Before working at Friends, Everitt directed Community Action Works’ Portland office, where he helped dozens of communities across New England fight leaking landfills, sludge spreading, and toxic pesticide spraying. He was also Maine State Director of the League of Young Voters. He is a graduate of Rutgers University.
“Will takes the helm at a time when we are on a steady, solid course,” said Casco Baykeeper Ivy Frignoca. “His leadership will help us take innovative steps to address the impacts of climate change, rising sea level, increased storms, and other threats. Will’s intrepid vision and fiscal skill will ensure we meet the challenges ahead.”
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