Charles Darwin Foundation Names New Executive Director
Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galapagos Islands (CDF) announced today the selection of a new Executive Director. Gabriel López, PhD, will assume leadership of the organization from its current leader, Graham Watkins, PhD, effective January 1, 2009.
López is an anthropologist with 25 years of experience in sustainable development, conservation, education and poverty alleviation. He will continue with the reorganization process started by Watkins, in which CDF restructured its scientific research area, strengthened bonds with the community and local institutions in Galapagos, and consolidated its role as advisor to the Ecuadorian government, which is responsible for conservation of Galapagos. López will leave his current post as Director of Global Strategies for IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature), in Gland, Switzerland, and formerly held leadership positions of The Ford Foundation, USA. CDF warmly welcomes López and looks forward to supporting his efforts to lead the organization.
CDF is grateful for the admirable work accomplished by Watkins, whose vision and guidance significantly helped reinvigorate the institution. Watkins, having served as Executive Director since 2005, has chosen to leave CDF to pursue other opportunities.
Next year CDF will be celebrate its 50th anniversary of undertaking scientific investigation to benefit conservation of Galapagos, and participate in worldwide celebrations to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth. Unquestionably, 2009 marks a transition year for CDF, and one in which its results-oriented dedication to Galapagos will continue to be strengthened.
- source: Press Release from Charles Darwin Foundation