A warm welcome to the Preserve’s first Director of People & Culture

The Preserve is delighted to announce that Barb Stoddard joined our staff on September 14 as our inaugural Director of People & Culture. Creating this role is an important investment in our staff and will strengthen a values-driven, people-first culture across the Preserve.

“I am thrilled to welcome Barb to the Preserve and excited for all that she will bring to our organization,” said CEO Patrick MacRae. “As a direct report to me and a member of the Leadership Team, Barb will ensure that the needs and experiences of our people are represented in organizational decision-making. Her leadership will help us continue fostering a culture where staff feel valued, supported, and able to thrive.”

Barb brings more than 20 years of experience in human resources, organizational culture, and workforce development. She previously served for eight years as Executive Director of Human Resources for Portland Public Schools, supporting a complex, multi-site workforce of more than 1,500 employees. Most recently, she has led statewide workforce development initiatives at the New Mainers Resource Center.

Throughout her career, Barb has earned a reputation as a thoughtful, approachable leader committed to fairness, trust, and creating workplaces where people can thrive. She and her husband Michael and their two children have been coming to Mount Desert Island and the Preserve for years and have developed a deep and abiding love for this special place.