Nell Larson, longtime director of Swaner Preserve, to depart

Nell Larson departing from Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter this fall. Photo: Nell Larson on the Swaner Preserve (October 2022)

PARK CITY, Utah — Nell Larson, the Executive Director of Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter, will be stepping down from her position this fall, marking the end of a 17-year stint with the organization.

Under Larson’s guidance, Swaner achieved much success, including the establishment of a dynamic traveling museum exhibition program, forging strong community partnerships to expand program outreach and spearheading innovative projects to enhance watershed health. She also orchestrated substantial growth in the annual budget, from $300,000 to $1.3 million, resulting in a significant increase in community impact. Presently, Swaner serves approximately 25,000 people annually while concurrently expanding its conservation and research efforts.

“Larson’s leadership has reflected her commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement,” said David Kizer, Chair of Swaner’s Board, in a press release. “We are so fortunate to have had Nell leading Swaner for the past decade. She has driven enormous growth and development for the organization through the introduction of major new programs and innovative projects as well as successful fundraising to strengthen our ability to serve a larger community of people.”

For Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter’s next executive director, Utah State University (USU), in collaboration with the Swaner board and staff, will lead a nationwide search slated to commence by year’s end.

“I’m so grateful for the unwavering support of this community and for my time at Swaner,” Larson said in a press release. “This is such a special place, and Swaner’s work is critical to maintaining a healthy environment and community into the future. We have an amazing team in place to keep the momentum moving, and I can’t wait to see what the organization will take on next!”

As Larson embarks on a new chapter, she will relocate to Los Alamos, New Mexico, and join the esteemed Los Alamos National Laboratory. In her new role, she will spearhead the development of the cutting-edge Enduring Environmental Stewardship Program, enabling her to continue her commitment to environmental conservation.