Anita Grove has always been comfortable building bridges between people and nature and between nature and business. Before she became the coastal training coordinator at Florida’s Apalachicola Reserve, she was the executive director of the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce. There she worked to promote the sustainable seafood industry, small businesses, and tourism, while preserving the bay’s pristine environment.

Now, she has taken on a new challenge—city commissioner at of Apalachicola. Alongside her “day job” of providing training and technical assistance to local decision makers, she will be working to help balance the city’s budget, create affordable housing, support local businesses, protect water quality, and improve communication with citizens.

“Our history, the environment, and the people make Apalachicola extraordinary,” says Anita. “Locals have worked diligently to preserve the bay and river for many decades. I appreciate the opportunity to use my skills to serve the community I love.”

We are looking forward to seeing how she brings reserve science, training, and education to bear on community challenges in her new role. Go, Anita!