DDWS hires new director of development
Lynnae Messina recently stepped into the full-time position as director of development for the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge.
She, along with Development Officer Sierra Hoisington, work with Executive Director Birgie Miller in strengthening and enhancing overall development efforts.
A native of the Chicago area, Messina has lived in Lee County with her husband for four years and most recently served as assistant to the chief foundation officer for the Lee Health Foundation. She graduated from Illinois State University and has logged nearly 11 years of experience in nonprofit work.
“Lynnae will bring strength to our team with her skills in communication, management and fundraising,” Miller said. “Described by her colleagues as a dependable driven leader, successful with building strong relationships and enhancing the mission of the nonprofit she is a part of, Lynnae has a history of successfully managing projects and meeting goals.”
A lifelong outdoors enthusiast, Messina said she is looking forward to fundraising to support the mission of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in protecting wildlife and its habitat.
“We always think that things in nature are taken care of, but that’s not the case,” Messina said. “I’m excited to further that cause. That’s what makes this job so great – just to be able to be out in nature, the wonder and beauty of it all.”
“With her strong background in health care nonprofits, Lynnae recognizes the overall positive impacts of getting outside on physical and mental health and believes strongly in the conservation mission of the friends group,” Miller said. “We welcome her and her impressive background to the team.”
To support DDWS and the refuge with a tax-deductible gift, visit dingdarlingsociety.org or contact Birgie Miller at 239-472-1100 ext. 4 or director@dingdarlingsociety.org.