Bay Park Conservancy Introduces Three Community Leaders to its Board of Directors

The Bay Park Conservancy, the successor to the Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization whose mission is to design, fund raise, construct and operate the bayfront Master Plan known as “The Bay,” has unanimously elected three new members to its Board of Directors.

Carlos de Quesada, Managing Member and Founder of Vera Cruz Advisory LLC, brings strength through his extensive experience, financial advising and strategic consulting services, particularly in public private partnerships.  De Quesada is also a certified BoardSource consultant in non-profit board governance through the Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Rod Hershberger, Co-founder and current Chairman of the board of Laurel-based PGT Innovations, the industry leader in the design and manufacture of impact doors and windows.  An avid athlete and outdoorsman, particularly in all water sports, Hershberger has a passion for anything having to do with recreation on the water, and protecting and enhancing our area’s bays, bayous and the Gulf of Mexico.

Emily Walsh, Publisher of the Observer Media Group’s four Sarasota-based newspapers, magazines and website, in addition to leading the company’s digital strategy and operations.  Walsh has extensive meaningful leadership experience in area non-profit boards, and exceptional skills in messaging, communications and public relations.

“The Bay Park Conservancy Board of Directors consists of known and proven leaders who have a true passion for the mission, and unique skill sets that enhance the culture of excellence we have established.  Carlos, Rod and Emily individually strengthen our team, and add depth by their unique experiences,” said Bay Park Conservancy Chair Cathy Layton.

The immediate focus of the Bay Park Conservancy is to fund, design, and implement Phase 1 of The Bay Park, approximately 9 acres of land south of the Van Wezel, which will include a revitalized coastal wetland and bayou, a living learning laboratory, and a signature sunset pier.  Environmental enhancements to the coastal wetland are fully funded and will proceed upon completion of the ongoing design and permitting process.

The other members of the Bay Park Conservancy Board of Directors are Cathy Layton, Robert Lane, Jennifer Compton, Steven Cover, Keith Dubose, Michael Klauber, Cynthia McCague, with A.G. Lafley as acting CEO.

If you have any questions or want to learn more, visit www.thebaysarasota.org. To find out how to get involved, visit the Blue Pagoda at 655 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236.