Dear Calusa Waterkeeper Members and Supporters,
I’m writing today to share some important news about a leadership transition at Calusa Waterkeeper.
Our Executive Director, Connie Ramos-Williams, has made the heartfelt decision to step down from her role effective March 31, 2025, to spend more time with her growing family. While we are certainly sad to see her step back from day-to-day leadership, we are incredibly grateful that she will continue to support the organization as a consultant during this transition period.
Connie joined Calusa Waterkeeper during a critical time and has led our organization through a truly transformative chapter. Under her leadership, we experienced record growth in nearly every area—impact, revenue, programs, partnerships, and community engagement. In 2024, thanks to her vision and tireless work, we exceeded our revenue goal by 25% —a 41% increase over the previous year. Grant funding saw a 156% increase, and our annual appeal campaign was very successful.
Numbers alone don’t tell the whole story: Connie helped launch our Taps Flow for H2O campaign during Water Quality Awareness Month, developed a new STEM Learning Pilot Program for K-8 students in Lee County, expanded our Vertical Oyster Garden program, and greatly increased our outreach and education events across the region. She also opened vital lines of communication with city and state officials, including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, deepening our advocacy and collaboration efforts.
Her contributions leave a lasting legacy—and more importantly, they leave Calusa Waterkeeper in a stronger, more sustainable position for the future.
“Serving as Executive Director of Calusa Waterkeeper has been an incredible honor,” Connie shared. “I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished together—from record fundraising to new programs that educate and engage our community. This organization is in a strong position for continued success, and I’m confident that the next chapter will bring even more progress for our waters and the people who depend on them.”
On behalf of the Board of Directors, our Rangers, Advisory Council, and entire CWK community—I want to extend our deepest thanks to Connie. Her leadership, passion, and commitment have been inspiring, and she’ll always be a part of the Calusa Waterkeeper family.
Our Board has already begun the process of identifying our next Executive Director as well as a new Waterkeeper and we look forward to sharing updates and introductions with you very soon. In the meantime, the work towards our mission remains as strong as ever. All of our core programs—from water and air quality monitoring to restoration projects and community advocacy—are moving forward without pause.
Thank you for your continued support during this transition. The passion and engagement of this community is what keeps our mission thriving to protect our waters.
Warm regards, and on behalf of the Calusa Waterkeeper Board of Directors,
Chuck Avery
President, Calusa Waterkeeper, Inc.