Message from the Executive Director
Hello all,
A few weeks ago, Mark Schmidt, past chair with CTIC and a close friend, mentioned that CTIC has always been a consistent and steady voice through the years for conservation promotion and information. We went on to discuss how the packaging for conservation may change—with new phrases, buzzwords, and entities coming to the forefront—but the essence and importance only continue to grow.
As CTIC celebrates its 40th anniversary, I’ve reflected on all the people the organization has engaged with over the years to accomplish our mission. The impact an organization like ours can have is truly remarkable. To this day, I still hear praise from past board members, directors, and partners about projects dating back to long before my arrival, not to mention all the support for our ongoing work. It is humbling. I’m excited for the future of CTIC as we transition to the most pressing and highest potential topics in conservation: climate and technology.
Late this May, my wife Katie and I welcomed a little girl to our family. The joy and excitement we have shared this last month is beyond explanation. With this change, I felt it was time for me to pursue a new chapter as well, and with the support of the board submitted my resignation from CTIC effective the end of June.
The last three years have been challenging and rewarding. I’m incredibly thankful for all that CTIC has provided to me and my family. The US conservation community is an outstanding group, filled with a diversity of people dedicated to making our soils and country a better place now and into the future.
In my absence, Dr. Dave Gustafson will reprise his past role of interim Executive Director as our board conducts a search for a permanent ED. Dave has been a committed board member, staff member, and long-time friend of CTIC, as he often puts it.
Finally, I’d like to thank our great team at CTIC for all the work they do! Crystal, Sue, Callie, Steve, Dave, and Hans, you are an incredible group of individuals and I have been blessed to work beside all of you. Specifically, I’d like to thank Dave for his leadership, guidance, and friendship over the past 3 years.
As always, Enjoy the Day!
Mike
