The environmental conservation nonprofit Chesapeake Conservancy has selected a familiar face as the organization’s next leader.
Susan Shingledecker, who previously served as the Chesapeake Conservancy’s vice president and director of programs from 2017 to 2020, will be the nonprofit’s next CEO, starting Sept. 8.
“Susan’s return is a homecoming we are thrilled to celebrate,” said Chesapeake Conservancy Board Chair Stephanie Meeks in a statement. “Following a nationwide search, the Board is confident that Susan brings the strategic leadership, nonprofit management experience and deep passion for the Chesapeake Bay that this role requires. She is uniquely positioned to build on our strong foundation and guide Chesapeake Conservancy into its next chapter.”
Shingledecker will return to Chesapeake Conservancy after most recently serving as executive director of Earth Science Information Partners. At ESIP, she worked with partners in federal and state governments, academic institutions, and private-sector technology firms to use data to address environmental challenges.
“I’m honored to return to Chesapeake Conservancy and lead this incredible team working to protect the nation’s largest estuary and one of the most iconic and vital landscapes in the country,” Shingledecker said in a statement. “My five years at ESIP have given me an incredible understanding of the opportunities for data to inform our conservation work, increase our efficiency and grow our impact. I am excited to combine this experience with my past work in conservation and outdoor recreation.”
Shingledecker will succeed former CEO Joel Dunn, who resigned as president and CEO of the Chesapeake Conservancy at the end of 2024 to join the Campaign for Nature.
Chief operating officer EJ Amyot will continue to serve as Chesapeake Conservancy’s interim president and CEO until Shingledecker officially begins her role as CEO.
A Severna Park resident, Shingledecker has worked as vice president of BoatU.S. and held roles within the Maryland Energy Administration and National Governors Association.
She has also served on NOAA’s Hydrographic Services Review Panel, the American Boat and Yacht Council’s Aquatic Invasive Species Product Technical Committee, and the steering committee of the Chesapeake Bay Observing System.
Shingledecker earned her master of environmental management from Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment and a bachelor of arts in international studies from American University’s School of International Service.
She enjoys sailing on the Chesapeake Bay with her husband and two sons.
