Rock Hill Region Welcomes New Executive Director at Nation Ford Land Trust as Leadership Change is Announced

Rock Hill Region Announces Leadership Change at Nation Ford Land Trust

Rock Hill, SC – The Nation Ford Land Trust, the largest land preservation organization in the Rock Hill area, will soon welcome a new executive director as current leader Steve Hamilton plans to step down at the end of this year. Board member Jennifer McAdams has been selected to take over the role.

Founded to assist property owners in conserving land, the Nation Ford Land Trust focuses on limiting development on these areas. The organization collaborates with local governments to establish conservation easements, ensuring that these lands remain protected for future generations. Notable projects have included conservation efforts on sites such as the Catawba Nation, Anne Springs Close Greenway, Historic Brattonsville, Catawba Bend Preserve, and Kings Mountain State Park.

The Transition of Leadership

Steve Hamilton joined the Nation Ford Land Trust in 2004 and became the executive director in 2019. Under his leadership, the trust has expanded its reach, growing from just over 10,000 acres preserved to approximately 16,000 acres today. The transition comes as Hamilton approaches his 70th birthday and expresses a desire to pursue more personal interests, including travel, golfing, painting, and clay shooting. “I am ready to spend more time with family and pursue personal interests,” said Hamilton during an announcement.

Insights from the Board

Chairwoman Janice Chism praised Hamilton’s efforts, stating, “His leadership has been instrumental in guiding Nation Ford Land Trust’s growth and success.” The board, known for its mix of current and former elected officials as well as leaders from various business and civic organizations, looks forward to McAdams stepping into the executive director role.

Meet the New Leader

Jennifer McAdams, a graduate of Winthrop University, brings extensive experience to her new position. With over two decades in municipal and nonprofit sectors, she has previously directed urban development and planning projects in Rock Hill. Currently also leading planning initiatives at the Catawba Nation, McAdams was appointed to the land trust board last year.

Upon taking on this critical role, McAdams expressed her enthusiasm for maintaining and building upon Hamilton’s legacy. “I’m excited to contribute to preserving our most finite resource, land, for future generations to enjoy,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to fostering partnerships aimed at conservation.

Future of Land Conservation

As Hamilton prepares for his departure, the Nation Ford Land Trust’s board remains optimistic about the future. Under McAdams’ leadership, the organization aims to strengthen its conservation efforts and continue educating the community on the importance of protecting natural spaces.

The leadership change at Nation Ford Land Trust signifies not only a transition in personnel but also a reaffirmation of the region’s commitment to land preservation. As the community begins to transition to a new chapter, all eyes will be on McAdams as she guides the organization forward.