Newton Resident Named President Of Charles River Watershed Association

NEWTON, MA – Newton resident Toni Hicks was named president of the Charles River Watershed Association at the organization’s 57th annual meeting on Friday.

Hicks is a public interest attorney with experience working in nonprofit management. She comes to CRWA having worked as director for public service and pro bono at Boston University School of Law and founding director of senior fellows programs at the Conservation Law Foundation.

“I have lived in the Charles River watershed for over 20 years and associate so many happy moments with being on or near the river,” Toni Hicks said in a news release.

“CRWA plays such an important role in protecting not just the river itself, but the entire watershed, from environmental harm and climate impacts. It’s truly an honor to be stepping into the role of board president,” Hicks added.

Hicks’ favorite activities along the Charles River include running along Memorial Drive, skating at Auburndale Cove, learning to row during the pandemic, watching the head of the Charles, hiking through the Medfield’s Charles River Reservation, celebrating the Fourth of July, and taking strolls (and lunch breaks) along the Esplanade.

Peter Fernandez of Lexington was appointed vice president of CRWA, succeeding outgoing vice president Lance Campbell.

Hicks takes over the position from outgoing board president Linda McLane, who has served on CRWA’s board since 2011, and has led the organization for the past six years.

“I am so grateful for the incredible leadership of Linda McLane and Lance Campbell over these last few years, especially as we weathered the pandemic to come out an even stronger organization,” Emily Norton, CRWA Executive Director, said in the news release. “They have set up a strong scaffold for Toni and Peter to build upon as we work together to tackle our remaining obstacles to a cleaner, healthier Charles River.”

CRWA’s mission is to protect, restore and enhance the Charles River and its watershed through science, advocacy, and the law. The organization uses science-based strategies to increase resilience, protect public health, and promote environmental equity as we confront a changing climate.