JACKSON, Wyo. — The Jackson Hole Land Trust (JHLT) is proud to announce the appointment of two longtime supporters and former board members, Pete Lawton and Bob Peters, to its emeritus board. Additionally, the JHLT welcomes four new board members who will assist the organization with its continued efforts in land preservation.
Lawton and Peters’ dedication has played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the JHLT, and this emeritus appointment ensures their continued involvement and insight in the years to come. This honor acknowledges their exceptional contributions to the organization and their commitment to preserving the wild and working landscapes of Jackson Hole and greater Northwest Wyoming.
“The JHLT Board of Directors grants emeritus status in recognition of outstanding contributions to the organization and ongoing service in support of our work,” JHLT President Max Ludington said. “Our emeritus board members continue to provide insight and guidance after the conclusion of their official terms.”
Lawton, who has served as the CEO of the Bank of Jackson Hole since 2011, brings decades of financial expertise and a deep understanding of the Jackson Hole community. His leadership during his two terms as board chair was invaluable during the organization’s Forever Our Valley Campaign which resulted in signature projects like the R Park.
Peters, a former vice chair of the board, has a rich history in the valley beginning with his first visit in 1961 and culminating in a 40-year love affair with the region’s skiing and conservation efforts. His service as the Open Space Council Chair broadened the JHLT’s community engagement, and as the longtime chair of the Governance Committee, he played a critical role in shaping and expanding the Board of Directors.
The Jackson Hole Land Trust is also excited to welcome Chris Perkins, Faith Hamlin, Anna Cole and Jeff Cohodes to its board. Each brings a unique perspective and skill set that will further strengthen the organization’s ability to safeguard the region’s landscapes.
Cohodes, a retired chief risk officer of Northern Trust and former chair of City Year Chicago, brings extensive experience in for-profit and nonprofit governance as well as a commitment to protecting open spaces and wildlife habitats. His deep knowledge of economics and finance will be a valuable asset to the board.
Cole, a marketing executive with over 15 years of experience, is passionate about outdoor recreation and community development. Having worked in leadership roles at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Bank of Jackson Hole, she now runs an independent marketing consulting business. Her marketing expertise and enthusiasm for outdoor activities will greatly enhance the JHLT’s outreach efforts.
Hamlin, a Bondurant-based rancher and outdoor enthusiast, manages her family’s Little Jennie Ranch and Bondurant Basin Outfitters. With experience on nonprofit boards, including with the WYLDlife Fund, Faith brings a deep understanding of land use and conservation in rural Wyoming.
Perkins, Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, focuses on promoting sustainable growth in the outdoor recreation economy. His work in rural economic development and state advocacy aligns closely with the JHLT’s mission, and his experience in advancing diversity and inclusion in outdoor spaces adds a vital dimension to the board’s efforts.
As these new members join the board, the JHLT extends its heartfelt gratitude to outgoing members Jan Davis and Michael Shrotz for their years of dedicated service. Their hard work has left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the organization and the community for years to come.
This year’s appointments signal a continued dedication to the conservation of Jackson Hole and greater Northwest Wyoming. With the wisdom of its emeritus members and the fresh perspectives of its new appointees, the JHLT is well-positioned to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
