Eagles Island Nature Park announces appointment of five new board members
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Eagles Island Nature Park is pleased to announce the appointment of five distinguished regional leaders to its Board of Directors: Mayor Eulis Willis (Navassa), Sue Hayes, Dr. Greg Williams, Jim Bucher, and John C. Wessell III.
These appointments strengthen the Park’s capacity to advance its mission of connecting the communities of Southeastern North Carolina through conservation, education, and recreation on and around Eagles Island.
“Each of these new Directors brings deep expertise, credibility, and a proven commitment to this region,” said Larry Sackett, Chair of the Eagles Island Nature Park Board. “Their leadership will help us move from vision to implementation.”
Mayor Eulis Willis – Gullah Geechee Heritage & Cultural Preservation (Brunswick County)
Mayor Eulis Willis, long-time Mayor of Navassa, is a leading voice in preserving Gullah Geechee history and culture. His work on the Moze Heritage Center and deep knowledge of local heritage landscapes will guide EINP in authentically interpreting and honoring the cultural narratives connected to Eagles Island and the surrounding communities.
Sue Hayes – Environmental Stewardship & Water Quality (New Hanover County)
Sue Hayes is a respected environmental leader with decades of experience in water quality, conservation, and public engagement in the Cape Fear region. She has served as Vice Chair and Chair of the New Hanover Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors and as President and Board Member of Cape Fear River Watch. With a background in chemistry, research management, and university teaching, Hayes brings technical expertise and strong regional partnerships that will guide EINP’s work in watershed health, policy, and environmentally responsible public access.
Dr. Greg Williams – Coastal Engineering & Sustainability (Brunswick County)
Dr. Greg Williams is an Assistant Professor of Practice in Coastal Engineering at UNC Wilmington and a former senior leader with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Wilmington. With more than 25 years of experience in dredging, tidal dynamics, and nature-based coastal systems, he will help ensure that Eagles Island planning and infrastructure decisions are science-based, resilient, and sustainable.
Jim Bucher – Parks Development & Community Engagement (Brunswick County)
Jim Bucher played a central role in the development and management of the Belville Riverwalk Park, helping transform it into a regional destination. His hands-on experience in construction coordination, public amenities, and community programming will support EINP’s work on paddle trails, riverfront access, and visitor infrastructure.
John C. Wessell III – Governance & Municipal Law (New Hanover County)
John Wessell is a retired attorney with decades of service as Town Attorney for Leland and Wrightsville Beach. His expertise in local government, land use, and public policy will strengthen EINP’s governance, intergovernmental relationships, and long-range decision-making.
“This is a pivotal moment for Eagles Island Nature Park,” said Roger Shew, Board member. “Bringing together leaders in conservation, engineering, governance, and cultural heritage ensures that our decisions reflect both the land and the communities it serves.”
Eagles Island Nature Park is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world-class nature park that conserves ecological resources, interprets rich cultural histories, and provides responsible public access along the Cape Fear and Brunswick Rivers.
For more information, visit: eaglesislandnaturepark.org
