Foundation names new director of philanthropy

OSPREY — The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast named Lee Ann Rodriguez its new director of philanthropy.

Rodriguez started in the role May 1. 

She has over 20 years of combined experience in the private, nonprofit, higher education and government sectors, according to a press release. Her expertise consists of strategic planning and resource development, including fundraising, grant writing and research administration. 

Prior to her recent four-year tenure with New College Foundation, Rodriguez was the development manager at Para la Naturaleza of the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico. There she led the development team to support the organization’s mission of protecting land of high ecological value through major gifts, corporate giving and private grants. 

“Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is successfully protecting the most environmentally sensitive lands, engaging citizens in conservation and securing essential resources to advance their vision,” says Rodriguez in a statement. “I look forward to engaging with our community and with those invested in our organization. Together we will continue to save places that make a difference in our lives and the lives of generations to come.”

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast purchases natural areas, holds land conservation agreements and educates for responsible land and water stewardship. It has protected forever more than 11,000 acres in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties.