Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center Announces Leadership Transition

Davnet Conway (L) and Kim Hargrave (R) pictured at DPNC's woodland campus.

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC) announces an important leadership transition as Executive Director Davnet Conway moves on to pursue a new opportunity after 22 years of dedicated service. Current Education Director Kim Hargrave will assume the role of Interim Executive Director, guiding the staff to a strong future for the Nature Center.

Davnet Conway has been instrumental in shaping the Nature Center’s growth and success. Her journey with DPNC began in 2002 as Early Childhood Education Director. In 2006 she founded the Nature Preschool, a cornerstone of DPNC’s goal to connect children with nature. Advancing to Associate Director and ultimately Executive Director, she has led the organization through significant milestones.

Highlights of her tenure include:

• Guiding the Nature Center through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic
• Doubling enrollment at the Nature Preschool by expanding to Coogan Farm and creating a path for future growth
• Strengthening community partnerships and revitalizing fundraising efforts
• Establishing the Maggie Jones Environmental Hero Award to honor  those who embody the DPNC mission
• Eliminating remaining Coogan Farm debt fifteen years ahead of schedule and establishing an $80,000 Giving Garden endowment
• Launching successful new events such as the Woodland Ramble fundraiser and Perry Party
• Spearheading infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to bird of prey enclosures and greenway bridges
• Securing over $1.1 million in pledged legacy gifts and doubling the organization’s endowed funds
• Launching the strategic planning process, ensuring a clear vision for the future

Reflecting on her time at DPNC, Davnet Conway said, “It has been an honor to be part of the DPNC legacy, from Maggie [Jones] to Kim. I am immensely proud of what we’ve achieved and confident in the team’s ability to continue growing the Nature Center’s impact by fostering connections between people and nature.”

Davnet’s leadership has left an enduring legacy of innovation, resilience, and community impact.

Kim Hargrave, a native of Ledyard, CT, and a graduate of UMass Amherst in Natural Resources, brings over 25 years of experience with DPNC. She joined the Nature Center in 1998 as an educator and has since excelled as Education Director. Her deep understanding of the Nature Center’s mission, programs, and community ensures a seamless transition. Kim has played a key role in designing and implementing educational programs that inspire environmental stewardship and engagement.

Kim’s deep understanding of DPNC’s mission and her proven leadership make her an ideal choice to guide the Center during this transition. Reflecting on her new role, Kim said, “It’s an honor to step into this role and continue building on the strong foundation Davnet has established. With the support of our staff, trustees, and volunteers, we are poised to deepen our impact and inspire even more people to connect with the natural world. I look forward to working collaboratively to achieve these goals.”

Kim’s former responsibilities as Education Director will be divided into two distinct roles. Jess Morris, currently serving as Summer Camp Director and Assistant Animal Curator, will step into the Public Programs Director role, overseeing the development and delivery of public educational programs. Jess will also continue to oversee the Nature Center’s Summer Nature Camp. Tessa Stuart, also a current educator and the Director of the Neighbors & Nature after-school program, will take on the role of Outreach Programs Director, focusing on building connections and expanding the Nature Center’s presence in schools and community groups. Both Jess and Tessa bring years of experience as educators at the Nature Center.

Board President Karen Stone expressed optimism for the Center’s future: “We feel fortunate to have so many talented people among our staff, ready to step forward. As the organization has grown, the Board and staff have intentionally worked to foster the skills of our team so that we have a large pool of employees ready to step into leadership roles.”

With a strong team of staff, trustees, and volunteers, DPNC is well-positioned to continue its mission of connecting people to the natural world. Guided by an ongoing strategic planning process, the Nature Center is committed to expanding its reach and deepening its impact in the community.