The Coastal Conservation League today celebrates the service of Faith Rivers James, who has stepped down as Executive Director after nearly four years of distinguished leadership.
Faith came to this role as a Lowcountry native — someone who has cared for this coast her entire life. Under her leadership, the League defended the Cultural Protection Overlay on St. Helena Island in Council chambers and the courts; stood with community partners to protect Union Pier and the Phillips Community’s cultural heritage; won landmark protections for the Red Knot and horseshoe crab populations; supported efforts that led to the expansion of the Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve; and secured a $1.2 million New Market Tax Credit to anchor GrowFood’s new warehouse in the Charleston Neck Opportunity Zone. These are enduring wins for South Carolina’s coast.
We are deeply grateful for Faith’s integrity, her advocacy, and her unwavering commitment to the communities this organization serves. She leaves behind a strong, experienced team and a League well-positioned for the work ahead.
Lori Cary-Kothera, the League’s Chief Conservation Officer, will serve as Interim Executive Director. The Board has begun a search for the organization’s next Executive Director. Our programs, advocacy efforts, and community partnerships will continue without interruption.
The Coastal Conservation League looks forward to building on this strong foundation in the years ahead.
Kent Griffin
Board Chair