After 8 impactful years, Dr. Karen Poiani has officially stepped down from her role as CEO at Island Conservation. The Island Conservation staff and board wish Karen all the best in her retirement and are grateful for her time served at the helm of the organization.  

Now, we are thrilled to welcome our new CEO – Dr. Penny Becker. On July 1, 2024, Penny transitioned from the Vice President of Conservation to Chief Executive Officer at Island Conservation. Earlier this year, the Board of Directors had unanimously and enthusiastically selected Penny as Karen’s successor.  

Check out our interview with Karen and Penny!

Tune into an interview featuring these two amazing leaders as they reflect on their time together at the organization and share what they are most excited for next!

Karen and Penny have had many years leading the organization side-by-side. Together, they have expanded our impact, projects, organizational health, and built a new Strategic Vision alongside the Leadership Team, Board, and Advisory Council.  

“It’s such a great feeling to know that I am leaving the organization in capable hands. Penny has served on Island Conservation’s leadership team since 2020, and her deep understanding of our work, her integral role in shaping our new Strategic Vision, and her alignment with IC’s core values make her the perfect choice. We have been experiencing a seamless transition and we are already seeing how Penny brings a renewed energy and expanding perspective to our work.”

Karen Poiani, Island Conservation CEO 2016 – 2024.

For a look inside the next five years of Island Conservation with Penny at the helm, check out our 2024 – 2028 Strategic Vision. 

About Penny

Meet Dr. Penny Becker, our new Chief Executive Officer at Island Conservation. Formerly our Vice President of Conservation, Penny has been with Island Conservation since 2020 and was integral to the development of our new Strategic Vision. Before she joined Island Conservation, Penny received her PhD from the University of Pretoria in South Africa and worked at the Department of Fish and Wildlife for 9 years focusing on recovering at-risk wildlife species. 

To learn more about Penny, check out her bio! >>