Valentine joins SCCF, shell museum
In the newly created role of physical plant manager, Dan Valentine came on board in July to ensure smooth operations of both the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. He devotes four days a week to the SCCF and one day to the museum as the first joint hire between the neighboring nonprofits, the SCCF reported.
“Dan is a terrific addition to help keep the museum’s building and campus looking good and operating well, and we value this partnership with SCCF,” museum Director Sam Ankerson said. “It makes sense to pool resources where we can, and this is a novel and effective example.”
Valentine is thrilled to be working with both organizations as he has a deep connection to nature.
“I’m proud to be supporting both institutions in furthering scientific research and the awareness of the importance of our unique island environment,” he said.
Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, Valentine began visiting the islands at the age of 3 for winter and spring family vacations. From summers spent on the French River in Ontario, Canada, to learning about the wilderness and being a good steward of the planet through the Boy Scouts of America, he is aligned with the missions of both organizations.
After graduating from the University of Indianapolis with bachelor’s degrees in anthropology and archaeology, Valentine worked in plumbing and maintenance for nearly a decade. An avid fisherman and advocate for clean water and maintaining a healthy sustainable fishery, he moved to Florida in 2014 and became an island resident in 2018.
“We are happy to have Dan working for both organizations and appreciate both his efficiency in his work and his dedication to our nature ethic,” SCCF Chief Executive Officer Ryan Orgera said.
Valentine is married and the father of two children.
“I believe we need to provide them with a healthy planet for their generation and those who come after,” he said.
Valentine is assisting Facilities Manager Jeff Siwicke in the maintenance of SCCF’s various operations, including the main office, Bailey Homestead Preserve, Sanibel Sea School, Coastal Wildlife/Wildlife Habitat offices, a propagation facility, Marine Lab, intern housing, and a guest cottage.
“It’s great to have Dan on board,” Siwicke said. “He’s got a positive attitude and knows his profession well.”