Westport's Earthplace Names New Executive Director

WESTPORT, CT — Westport-based Earthplace has appointed Amee Borys as its new Executive Director, effective Tuesday, the nature education and conservation facility announced. Borys is the sixth Executive Director and first woman to lead Earthplace in its 65-year history, and brings a "profound personal connection and extensive professional experience to the role."

Borys previously served as Earthplace's Director of Early Childhood Education from 2015 to 2023, and prior to that, she was the Assistant Director of Earthplace Preschool, a summer camp counselor, and a classroom teacher. She was instrumental in expanding Earthplace's offerings, including establishing the After School Enrichment Program, The Nest Infant and Toddler Program, and The Little Wreckers classroom at Staples High School.

Her journey with Earthplace began nearly two decades ago as a parent, with both of her children attending Earthplace preschool, after-school programs, and summer camps. This early experience inspired her children to pursue careers in environmental biology and science education.

"I’m honored to follow in Tony’s footsteps," said Borys said in a statement. "His dedication to Earthplace laid a strong foundation, and I’m excited to build on that legacy in the years ahead."

— Tony McDowell, left, and Amee Borys. Photo credit: Earthplace

From the Earthplace announcement:

With a Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Leadership and a career dedicated to advancing nonprofit educational initiatives, Borys is uniquely positioned to lead Earthplace. Her background in strategic planning, program development, and community engagement, combined with her passion for environmental education and commitment to inclusive programming, makes her the ideal leader to further Earthplace's mission and strengthen its role as a vital environmental and educational resource for the region.

The Earthplace Board of Directors also extends its deepest gratitude to Tony McDowell, who has served as Executive Director for over a decade. "Under Tony’s leadership, Earthplace has seen remarkable growth in both financial stability and program offerings," said Mo Tooker, Chair of the Earthplace Board of Directors. "Amee is eager to advance the Earthplace vision with her deep expertise and passion."

McDowell will continue to support Earthplace in a new volunteer role, which will include fundraising, donor stewardship, and capital planning to broaden the organization's mission and outreach across Mid-Fairfield County.

McDowell added, "I am confident that Earthplace is in a strong position for continued success under Amee’s leadership. I look forward to supporting the next chapter by focusing on capital projects and the fundraising efforts that will allow us to grow our impact."

About Earthplace: Earthplace is a donor-supported, non-profit organization committed to fostering passion and respect for the natural world and a more sustainable future for our community. We value access to nature for all, regardless of age, ability, religion, gender, and race. We impact lives through science and discovery, community engagement, and inspired teaching and learning.

Earthplace was founded in 1958 as the Mid-Fairfield County Youth Museum by a group of inspired nature conservationists led by John Ripley Forbes, who acquired the land and built the current facility. The original building, Nature Place Museum, Animal Hall, and the outdoor birds-of-prey exhibits—still exist today. A nature-based preschool--the first in the country--was added in the mid-1960’s, followed by the addition of Harbor Watch, an environmental science program, in the 1980’s.

For more information about Earthplace, visit earthplace.org.