MRF Executive Director Lessner to Retire

After serving as the first and thus far only Executive Director of the Madison River Foundation, Richard Lessner, will retire this October, yet will remain engaged with the volunteer efforts and the foundation’s conservation projects. 

Read more in the press release below. 

MRF Executive Director Lessner to Retire

ENNIS, MT – The Madison River Foundation has announced that Executive Director Richard Lessner will retire this coming October. Lessner has served as the Foundation’s first and only executive director since June 2007. Formed in 2003, the Foundation started as an all-volunteer group, and has grown substantially since hiring a full-time staff member.

“It has been a real privilege to serve the Foundation these past six years,” Lessner said. “My tenure as executive director has been profoundly rewarding. I wish to thank the Foundation Directors for the great leadership and encouragement they have provided, and all our members and volunteers for their generous support. I plan in my retirement to remain actively involved with the Foundation as a volunteer, especially with regard to our many exciting conservation projects, both those ongoing and planned for the near future.”

“As Executive Director, Richard has been largely responsible for growing this organization into a respected voice for the Madison River. He is a tireless and enthusiastic advocate for the Madison River, the Valley and the mission of the Foundation,” said David Bricker current Foundation President. “We are grateful and pleased that he intends to remain involved as a volunteer in many of our endeavors.”

The Foundation’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and will be seeking applicants to fill the position.

 Contact:

Richard Lessner, (406) 682-3148
David Bricker, (406) 682-3641