Delaware Nature Society names Brian Winslow as executive director

The Delaware Nature Society has named Brian Winslow as its new executive director, effective Jan. 1, 2012. Winslow succeeds Michael Riska, who has been the executive director of DNS since 1984 and a member of the staff since 1969.

Currently, Winslow is the director of the Asbury Woods Nature Center in Erie, Pa., which attracts more than 65,000 visitors annually. At Asbury Woods, Winslow spearheaded a successful capital campaign that raised $3.8 million for completion of a greenway trail, renovation of a farm site as a trail head and education facility, and expansion of the nature center.

A graduate of Ohio University, Winslow worked as a farm interpreter, naturalist and environmental education manager at facilities in Michigan and Ohio before joining Asbury Woods in 1997. He is a board member of the Association of Nature Center Administrators and the Lake Erie Regional Conservancy.

“After a national search, the search committee is pleased to name Brian Winslow as the next executive director of the Delaware Nature Society,” said Peter Flint, search committee chair and DNS board member. “Brian comes with an outstanding record of success in his current position and is clearly prepared to take on the challenge of leading this organization, building on the momentum that it now enjoys.”

“I see many important initiatives taking place at the Delaware Nature Society,” said Winslow. “In particular, the DuPont Environmental Educational Center is connecting DNS with new audiences, including underserved Wilmington youth. I also am impressed that Delaware Nature Society reaches every region of the state; Abbott’s Mill Nature Center plays a vital role in education and land preservation in Sussex County.

“I’m excited about joining an organization that has such great respect nationally,” added Winslow. “There are many opportunities to further expand and enhance the Delaware Nature Society.”

“The mission of the Delaware Nature Society has been unwavering for almost 50 years,” said Tom Shea, president of the board of the Delaware Nature Society. “We look forward to Brian’s vision and leadership reinforcing our important role in education, preservation and advocacy.”

Winslow and his wife, Carrie, and their children, 20-year-old Emily and 17-year-old Evan, enjoy cross-country skiing, hiking, biking, kayaking and other outdoor activities. They are interested in exploring and getting to know the trails and waterways of Delaware.

For more information go to delawarenaturesociety.org.