After five and a half years of dedicated service, Susan Hughes retired from her position of Development Associate at the end of May, 2022. Susan joined the staff in October of 2016, just as Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation had begun the quiet phase of its comprehensive “For Future Generations” campaign. Susan devotedly supported all aspects of the Sheriff’s Meadow advancement program during this time period. She handled all donor acknowledgement letters, tracked progress toward campaign goals, organized and supported receptions and activities, supported our planned giving program, and much more.

The fundamental feature of any advancement program is thanking donors and Susan ensured that all of our donors were promptly thanked, in writing. The staff and members of the Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation Board are very grateful for all of the support that Susan provided. Susan also shared her excellent design skills with Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation in the newsletter. Working as a team with Editor Kate Feiffer, Susan laid out each page and each issue of the newsletter.

During this period the newsletter expanded dramatically, going from two issues to four, and expanding to include occasional special issues, issues that also included an annual report, artwork, and essays from guest writers.

Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation wishes Susan the best upon her retirement and expresses its grateful appreciation for all of her work as the Development Associate.

Thank You, Susan Hughes!

A Note from Susan:

Six years ago I moved full-time to Martha’s Vineyard, from a town west of Boston. After arriving on the Island, I saw an ad in the paper that Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation was looking for a Development Associate and I decided to apply for the position.

I had previously worked in development at an independent school close to my home. We had organized three successful campaigns, and I believed that I had the skills needed for the position. I interviewed and completed a tough assignment for Adam(three days in the library) and the rest is history!

I can truly say that working for Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation has been a highlight of my career. During my five-plus years here, many acres of land have been conserved and restored, the TrailsMV app was launched, native plants discovered, the bench program was put in place, and we kept our Sanctuaries open during the pandemic and provided places of refuge.

We continue to work to engage the Island community, through our guided walks, virtual presentation, storyboard walks at Sheriff’s Meadow Sanctuary and Nat’s Farm. Personally, my knowledge of the Island and its diverse habitats has increased exponentially and I have met wonderful people from all over the Island. As I told Adam in my retirement letter, I leave with many mixed feelings. It truly has been a privilege to work with such a wonderful, talented staff.

I am impressed with the dedication and commitment of the board members. I feel blessed to have met all of you and I thank you for welcoming me, for stuffing letters, building benches and for sharing your knowledge and expertise over the years.