DDWS reports on changing of guard for staff
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that Development Impact Officer Ann-Marie Wildman will soon be stepping into the position of associate executive director.
Last month, Associate Executive Director Sierra Hoisington announced her resignation due to a relocation to North Carolina following Hurricane Ian’s destruction of her island home. Her last day will be Feb. 10. Hoisington took over the position in early 2022 after six years with the organization.
“It seems like Sierra has been with us much longer than six years, as she immediately fit into our unique and special conservation team,” DDWS Executive Director Birgie Miller said. “She has been a true asset to our work with both the DDWS and the refuge. She worked with us on a number of projects and programs, but her leadership role — when working with the refuge on our WoW (Wildlife on Wheels), the “Ding” Darling studio exhibit, and our efforts for urban outreach — was outstanding.”
Hoisington has accepted a position in the Asheville/Hendersonville area with a land conservation trust and will use her passion for the conservation mission and the skills that she gained at the DDWS in promoting the importance of preserving and protecting lands there.
Wildman has been involved with the organization since she and her late husband, Don, served as volunteers and on the board of directors in the mid- to late 2010s. Since then, she has worked as Nature Store Manager and an all-around strong resource when it comes to anything art- or donor-related.
“Ann-Marie brings so much compassion for the conservation mission and incredible people skills to the position,” Miller said. “I’m thrilled to welcome her in this new role.”