The Mianus River Gorge has appointed Rochelle Thomas as its new executive director, effective Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Thomas most recently served as director of the Greenwich Center for the National Audubon Society.
Thomas succeeds Rod Christie, who retires this month after nearly 30 years of leadership at the Gorge.
During his tenure, Christie helped guide the organization’s growth as a nationally recognized center for forest conservation, ecological research, and environmental education.
A mission-driven conservation and nonprofit leader, Thomas brings more than a decade of experience advancing conservation and land stewardship, fundraising, strategic planning, and community
engagement.
At the Greenwich Center for the National Audubon Society, she oversaw seven wildlife sanctuaries totaling nearly 700 acres, led a team of staff and seasonal educators, and directed major restoration, fundraising, and public engagement initiatives.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rochelle to the Gorge,” said Tim Evnin, chairman of the Mianus River Gorge Board of Trustees. “She brings a rare combination of talents that will support the Gorge’s biggest priorities – expanding conservation efforts, cultivating science based research and education programs, and further developing community-centered programs, all while ensuring that our special ecosystems remain healthy for decades to come. Rochelle is exceptionally well positioned to lead the Gorge into its next chapter while honoring the extraordinary legacy Rod Christie leaves behind.”
During her time at Audubon, Thomas helped raise more than $1.5 million to support habitat restoration, educational programming, and operational growth. She also developed partnerships with regional conservation organizations and launched new community-based environmental programs focused on forest and watershed stewardship. In recognition of her efforts to revitalize the Greenwich Audubon Center as conservation action hub, the Town of Greenwich proclaimed May 10, 2026, as “Rochelle Thomas Community Conservation Day.”
“The Mianus River Gorge is one of the region’s most important ecological treasures,” said Thomas. “I’m honored to join an organization with such a deep commitment to conservation, scientific research, and
environmental education. I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside the Gorge’s dedicated staff, trustees, supporters, and partners to build on its remarkable legacy.”
Thomas holds a Master of Arts in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology from Columbia University, as well as a second master’s degree in American Studies from Columbia University. She received her bachelor’s degree in Film Studies from Barnard College.
Founded in 1953, the Mianus River Gorge has been a leader in land conservation, ecological stewardship, applied scientific research, and environmental education. As the first land project of the Nature Conservancy, the Gorge is the nation’s first privately protected natural area to be designated a National Natural Landmark. The organization protects more than 1,200 acres within the Mianus River Watershed and is both a preserve and living laboratory.
More information about Mianus River Gorge is available online.