Friends of Rookery Bay Hires New Executive Director

Friends of Rookery Bay has hired TJ Snopkowski as its new Executive Director, effective June 9. A Naples resident, Snopkowski most recently served as development director for the American Heart Association’s Southwest Florida chapter. He has more than a decade of local nonprofit experience with other organizations, including the Collier Fairgrounds, NCH Safe and Healthy Children’s Coalition, and American Red Cross. Snopkowski earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Connecticut State University and an MBA from LSU Shreveport, and is a master of science candidate at the University of Florida with an anticipated 2026 graduation.

“TJ Snopkowski brings an enthusiasm for Collier County’s coastal environment combined with proven fundraiser experience that is important to the Friends of Rookery Bay’s role in protecting Rookery Bay Research Reserve’s 110,000 acres,” said Don Tilton, board president of the nonprofit organization. “We look forward to continuing to grow membership, individual and corporate donations, visitation at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, and engagement with those who enjoy and benefit from living and working in this beautiful portion of the Western Everglades.”

“On a holistic level, there is nothing more important to our region than the protection of Rookery Bay and advocacy for our natural resources,” said Snopkowski. “I am tremendously honored to join this organization and look forward to carrying on the phenomenal work Friends of Rookery Bay is doing.”