On Sunday, October 22nd, Ausbon Sargent hosted its 36th Annual Meeting at the New London Historical Society with over 60 members in attendance. There was an introduction of the board and staff members, volunteers were thanked for their important service hours, and minutes were accepted from the 2022 Annual Meeting. Presentations were provided by the Treasurer, the Investment Committee, and the Chair, Lisa Andrews. Ausbon Sargent’s new Executive Director, Ben Wallace, provided an informative slideshow presentation, explaining the land projects completed over the last year, upcoming projects, and what Ausbon Sargent has been doing to follow its strategic plan.  

“I’m tremendously grateful for the support I’ve received in my first several months at Ausbon Sargent. We had a great year, thanks to Ausbon Sargent’s incredible Board, staff, volunteers, and community of supporters. It’s a testament to their leadership and dedication that we were able to permanently protect more than 400-acres and monitor more than 160 conserved properties in a year when we also said farewell to our founding Executive Director, recruited a new one, and acquired a new Building.”

Land Specialist, Andy Deegan, was recognized for his 15 years of service to the Land Trust. Retiring as Trustees were Jeff Hollinger and Ginny Gwynn, who both sat on the board for five years. Jeff served as Board Chair and was a member of the Investment and Finance Committees. Ginny Gwynn served on the Development Committee and was its Chair for four years. Both Jeff and Ginny were presented with framed photos of protected properties they were each especially fond of.  

New nominees to the Board were Robin Albing, Lexi Garcia, and past board member, Jim Owers. All three nominees were voted in by the board unanimously. The slate of officers to the board was accepted by unanimous vote for Lisa Andrews (Chair), Bob Zeller (Vice-Chair), Mike Quinn (Treasurer), and Susan Ellison (Secretary).