Introducing Raena Kamakahi, President & CEO

Dear Friends,

It is a true honor to introduce myself as the new President & CEO of Desert Foothills Land Trust.

As I begin this new chapter, I want to first express my gratitude to each of you—our volunteers, donors, partners, and advocates. Your commitment over the past 35 years has helped protect the remarkable landscapes, wildlife habitat, and cultural heritage that make our Sonoran Desert so special. Because of your generosity and dedication, hundreds of acres of open space have been permanently conserved for future generations.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside people to protect places that matter. Those experiences have reinforced a simple truth: lasting conservation is built on relationships, trust, and a shared vision for the future.

That spirit of collaboration and community is what drew me to Desert Foothills Land Trust. It is also what gives me confidence in our ability to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead. From iconic saguaro foothills to vibrant riparian habitats that support an incredible diversity of wildlife, our desert is both resilient and fragile. As our communities continue to grow, the importance of conserving open space and water, protecting wildlife corridors, preserving working lands, and connecting people with nature has never been greater.

I am excited to build upon the long-term efforts of this community while exploring new opportunities to strengthen conservation across the region. Together, we can continue protecting the landscapes that define our quality of life, inspire future generations, and sustain the plants and animals that call this desert home.

In the months ahead, I look forward to meeting many of you—whether at a guided hike, volunteer event, community gathering, or around the table discussing new conservation opportunities. I believe some of the best ideas come from listening, and I am eager to learn from the people who know and love this landscape best.

Whether you have been involved with Desert Foothills Land Trust since its founding or have recently joined our community, thank you for being part of this important work. Conservation succeeds because people choose to invest in something larger than themselves. Your support makes a lasting difference.

Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community. I am excited for what we will accomplish together as we continue protecting the Sonoran Desert—forever.

With gratitude,

Raena Kamakahi

President & CEO

Desert Foothills Land Trust