Courtesy of Catalina Island Conservancy
For more than 50 years, the Catalina Island Conservancy has served as a steward of one of the most extraordinary places on earth, protecting 88% of Santa Catalina Island and safeguarding 42,000 acres, including more than 60 species of plants and wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Our mission has always been based on a deep-seated dedication to conservation, education, and recreation working together to benefit the Island, its residents, and the more than one million visitors who experience Catalina each year.
As the Conservancy begins a new chapter of leadership, president and CEO Whitney Latorre has decided to step away from her role next month to spend more time with family and explore new opportunities.
“It has been my honor to bring forth and lead on a vision that has placed the Catalina Island Conservancy and the Island itself at the forefront of global conservation as climate change is being experienced more rapidly than ever,” said Latorre. “I will leave knowing that the foundation we have built, one rooted in science, stewardship and collaboration, will continue to guide this work into the future. Thereby making Catalina Island a safer and more resilient island for generations to come.”
During her tenure, Whitney guided the organization through a period of significant change and helped the team launch Operation Protect Catalina Island, an island restoration plan that combines conservation initiatives, habitat restoration and wildfire prevention under one coordinated effort. This work is a cornerstone of the Conservancy’s strategic plan and represents the commitment the Conservancy’s Board of Directors and Benefactor Members have made to protect this Island.
This bold vision reflects the Conservancy’s enduring dedication to the Island’s future, and Whitney’s contributions to its development have positioned the organization, our world-class team of advocates and our Interim President and CEO David Solomon for the critical work ahead.
A longtime admirer of the Conservancy, David has extensive executive leadership experience, having served as a CEO, President, CFO, and COO at various for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Most recently, he served as CEO and President of Young’s Holdings, Real Estate and Alternative Investments, a role he held for a decade while also providing strategic guidance to several nonprofit organizations, including board positions with Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles and the Foundation for Jewish Camp.
His passion for the Conservancy’s mission, vision, and values, coupled with his organizational leadership, makes him well-suited to guide the organization through this next phase.
The Conservancy remains steadfast in its mission and day-to-day operations. Our deeply talented team of conservation scientists, educators, land stewards, and operations professionals continues its work without interruption, supported by a committed Board of Directors and engaged Benefactor Members. We remain dedicated to working closely with supporters, residents, partners and other stakeholders to protect Catalina, ensuring it remains one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world that is open to all.
In the coming weeks, the Conservancy will begin a search for a permanent president and CEO to carry forward its legacy and mission to protect Catalina Island.
