Milena Eskew

Former “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) board members Milena Eskew and Joseph Kelley became new members of its Emeritus Board by unanimous vote at the recent DDWS annual meeting.

Eskew served on the original board of directors from 1982 to 1994 as secretary and historian. At 99 years young she continues to volunteer at the refuge, where she helped develop the original map brochure still in use today by visitors. She also translated it into French, Spanish and German.

Kelley, who served from 1988 to 1998, was president for two years and first organized meetings of all the Florida Friends groups so that they could share ideas. He also was involved in putting together the first national meeting of refuge managers to discuss volunteer training and in establishing a dedicated space for a bookstore, now the Refuge Nature Store.

To honor and take advantage of the wisdom and experience of retired members of its board, “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society created its emeritus program in 2007, whereby persons who have demonstrated at least six years of significant contributions to the board would continue to have the opportunity to stay associated with board actions and initiatives.

The DDWS board can elect up to two new members each year. The following are also members of the DDWS Emeritus Board: Millie Ford, Dick Hulit, Marilyn Kloosterman, Art Krival, Molly Krival, Jeanne Rankin, Bud Ryckman, Jim Sprankle, Gene Steele and Mary Ruth Stegman.

Joseph Kelley

As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, DDWS works to support J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s mission of conservation, wildlife and habitat protection, research and public education.

To join DDWS and support the refuge with a tax-deductible gift, visit www.dingdarlingsociety.org or contact Birgie Vertesch at 239-292-0566 or director@dingdarlingsociety.org.