Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit association formed in 1966 to protect and operate the donation of the original Connell Park lands by Arthur and Isabel Watres. It is an association of members all of whom support Lacawac’s mission and contribute time, money, and energy in keeping Lacawac open, preserved, and functioning. Lacawac is governed by board of trustees comprised of community minded volunteers elected annually for 3 year terms.

Board of Trustees

Peter Paul Olszewski, Jr. Esq.

Peter Paul Olszewski, Jr. Esq.

Chair

Jack Spall Esq.

Jack Spall Esq.

Vice Chair

Mary Ellen Bentler

Mary Ellen Bentler

Treasurer

Bill Leishear

Bill Leishear

Secretary

Genevieve Reese

Genevieve Reese

Terri Marcellus

Terri Marcellus

Emily Grillo

Emily Grillo

Phil Hobson

Phil Hobson

David Velinsky, PhD

David Velinsky, PhD

Dr. Mark Peterson

Dr. Mark Peterson

Dr. Kathleen Sottile

Dr. Kathleen Sottile

Chad Reed-Watres

Chad Reed-Watres

Milton Roegner

Milton Roegner

If you are interested in volunteering through leadership opportunities by serving on the Board of Trustees or a board committee (Finance, Education, Research, Marketing/Fundraising, Preservation) please contact Craig Lukatch, President at [email protected].

Strategic Plan

2025-2027

Strategic Plan
​​Lacawac has identified four priority areas over the next three years:
Priority 1:

Create an effective set of brand standards.

Priority 2:

Design and build a new website.

Priority 3:

Increase the capacity to house individuals visiting Lacawac.

Priority 4:

Develop a Master Site Plan for the 87-acre Mark and Courtney Peterson Nature Preserve and a Conceptual Plan for the Entire Peterson Property.

Discover the intricate details and key components that shape Lacawac’s comprehensive three-year strategic plan. Read more for additional insights into its strategic vision.