The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is pleased to announce the addition of Melissa Ringer as its new Chief Advancement Officer (CAO). Ringer brings more than two decades of fundraising and nonprofit leadership experience to the role, having successfully led major philanthropic initiatives across healthcare, education, and environmental sectors.
As CAO, Ringer will lead the Conservancy’s development, marketing, and communications teams. This includes overseeing the organization’s historic $70 million Now and Forever campaign launched in January, an initiative to ensure the long-term financial sustainability and impact of the Conservancy’s mission to protect the region’s land, water, and wildlife.
“We are thrilled to welcome Melissa to the leadership team at such a pivotal time in the Conservancy’s history,” said Rob Moher, President and CEO. “Her proven track record of strategic vision and collaborative leadership will be instrumental as we enter an exciting new chapter with the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience and broaden our impact across the region.”
Ringer brings extensive philanthropic experience, having served in key roles at organizations including the Jay and Patty Baker Humane Society Naples, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, and most recently as Vice President of Philanthropy at NCH for over 15 years.
About the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a nonprofit environmental organization that has protected water, land and wildlife in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties for more than 60 years. Through environmental science, policy, education and wildlife rehabilitation, the Conservancy safeguards Southwest Florida’s natural resources for future generations.
Headquartered in Naples, Florida, the Conservancy is home to Collier County’s only native wildlife hospital and its vibrant Nature Center. Currently open to visitors, the Nature Center is undergoing a major transformation into a new, impactful community offering—the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience, set to open in 2028. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a gateway to conservation, offering immersive exhibits, hands-on learning and expanded programs to inspire environmental stewardship and enhance the region’s quality of life.
Learn more and support Southwest Florida’s environmental future at conservancy.org.
Media Inquiries
Reneé Stoll, Conservancy of Southwest Florida Director of Communications and Marketing, (239) 430-2460, renees@conservancy.org