November 6th, 2024 – Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently held its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), celebrating 65 years of environmental conservation and recognizing Conservation Champions at the ceremonial event.

The event allows the BNT to highlight the organization’s major accomplishments from the previous year and provide updates on upcoming efforts and initiatives. This year, the BNT also recognized the efforts of eight notable individuals who have made outstanding contributions to conservation in The Bahamas.

These “Conservation Champions,” as the BNT refers to them, included: Dr. Karen Bjorndal and the late Dr. Alan Bolten, who conducted landmark research on sea turtles; Peter Andrews, Chair of the BNT’s Advancement Committee who’s helped raise more than $4 million; Andy Fowler, who served on the BNT’s Council for more than 16 years and facilitated the first corporate donation to the BNT; Marvin Arrington, BNT Council Member and President of Sagoma Construction Company, which has provided over 25 years of construction industry experience and pro bono services to the BNT; the Bob & Jeanne Coughlin Foundation, which has donated more than $1 million over five years to the Moriah Harbour Cay National Park in Great Exuma; Dr. Heather Mason, a notable marine biologist whose instrumental research on seahorses allowed the BNT to lobby for the declaration of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera; and Dr. Caroline Stahala-Walker, a dedicated scientist who has spent more than a decade focusing on the Abaco population of the Bahama Parrot.

Keynote Speaker, the Honorable Glenys Hanna-Martin, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Technical and Vocational Training, commended these individuals and the work of the BNT over its 65-year history.

Spanning efforts in conservation, community engagement, scientific research, and national park management, the organization’s spotlighted achievements between January 2023 and June 2024 included: the establishment of the country’s newest national park, Seahorse National Park; engaging more than 69,000 young Bahamians through education and outreach programs; the grand opening of Phase Three of the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve – an internationally-recognized botanical garden; receiving the prestigious Keesee Award for its work to protect the Piping Plover shorebird; scientific advancements like piloting an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (drone) program in select national parks to enhance monitoring and protection; partnering with Re:wild to develop Conservation Action Plans to safeguard the future of two critically endangered endemic species: the Bahama Oriole and the San Salvador Rock Iguana; creating hands-on opportunities for youth and stewarding environmental advocates through new and established internship programs; and developing a robust five-year Strategic Plan to guide the future of the organization and its goals.

The BNT’s annual AGM serves as an opportunity for the nonprofit to report to its membership base about the impact of their support, provide updates on future conservation goals, and engage partners and environmental advocates.

After the main event, attendees were welcomed to a special cocktail reception, giving them the opportunity to connect with fellow members and BNT staff.

Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle said: “As we reflect on the successes of the past year and a half, we commemorate not only our accomplishments but the partnerships and support that have helped us achieve them. On that note, the BNT is honored to celebrate remarkable Conservation Champions who’ve made extraordinary contributions to preserving the environment of The Bahamas. As The Bahamas National Trust continues its vital role as a guardian of The Bahamas’ natural heritage, we can confidently share exciting plans and high hopes for the future of our national parks thanks to the continued efforts of individuals like these and our loyal members and supporters.”

Additionally, the BNT announced a change in leadership on its Council, as Geoff Andrews stepped down after five years of dedicated service as President. Geoff has been instrumental in guiding the organization through significant conservation achievements, and the BNT extends its sincere gratitude for his invaluable contributions. The role of President now passes to Joanne Smith, who previously served as Deputy President and brings a wealth of experience and passion for conservation to her new leadership role. Joanne looks forward to advancing the BNT’s mission.

During the AGM, the BNT shared plans to release its 2024 Impact Report before year-end. This annual report will provide a full overview of its impact between January 2023 and June 2024, setting the stage for the next phase of their work.