Courtney Kimmel Named Director of Conservation at Port Royal Sound Foundation

Courtney Kimmel Named Director of Conservation at Port Royal Sound Foundation

Beaufort, SC — The Port Royal Sound Foundation (PRSF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Kimmel as its full-time Director of Conservation, which is also a new position for the organization. With a deep commitment to developing a strategic approach to research and institutional partnerships, Kimmel will lead PRSF’s efforts to advance environmental stewardship and conservation initiatives in the Port Royal Sound watershed.

As a social ecologist, Kimmel brings a transdisciplinary perspective to her work, emphasizing the factors that drive effective environmental management. Her expertise spans diverse fields, combining a strong foundation in research with a passion for sustainable practices. Prior to joining the Port Royal Sound Foundation, Kimmel served as Vice President of the Captain Planet Foundation. She is also a Professor of Practice at Virginia Tech, where she earned her PhD in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability.

Kimmel’s background in both the academic and nonprofit sectors makes her uniquely qualified to further PRSF’s mission of conserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the Port Royal Sound region. In her new role, she will focus on fostering innovative partnerships and developing impactful conservation strategies that engage local communities and stakeholders.

Originally from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Kimmel grew up immersed in complex environmental systems on the Chesapeake Bay, which sparked her lifelong dedication to environmental sustainability. She now resides on Battery Creek in Beaufort, SC, with her wife Jill, and their dog, Fisher.

“We are thrilled to welcome Courtney as our full-time Director of Conservation,” said PRSF Executive Director Jody Hayward. “Her experience, knowledge, and passion for conservation will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our efforts to protect and conserve the Port Royal Sound and its surrounding ecosystems.”

Kimmel’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the Port Royal Sound Foundation, and she looks forward to working alongside the Foundation’s team and partners to advance their shared conservation goals.

 

At A Glance

Calendar

From creature feedings to nature hikes, we’ve got exciting events for the whole family to enjoy.

Directions

We are centrally located in Beaufort County, where S.C. 170 crosses the Chechessee River. Just take the right exit from either direction at the bridge.

Field Trips

Fun for all ages, field trips enhance students’ classroom curriculum and gives them a unique understanding of our coastal environment.

Volunteer

Truly the heart of our Foundation, volunteering is the perfect way to learn more about what makes the Sound so important to us.

Ways to Give

Help us make a more profound impact for generations to come, not only for the Sound but for our community too!

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