We’re Thrilled to Share Exciting Board Leadership Updates at WRWC

We’re excited to share some big (and very joyful!) updates to the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council’s Board of Directors. These leadership transitions mark an important moment for WRWC as we continue growing as a community-centered organization grounded in environmental justice, stewardship, and deep connection to the watershed we all call home.

Welcoming Our New Board Chair: Jennifer Recinos

We are thrilled to announce that Jennifer Recinos has been elected as the new Chair of the WRWC Board of Directors.

Jennifer’s story is inseparable from the Woonasquatucket River. Born and raised in Olneyville, she spent her childhood playing along the river and joined WRWC in 2010 as a River Ranger. Over the past 14 years, she has remained deeply involved with the organization—serving on our Board since 2020, most recently as Vice President, and contributing her leadership across our Governance, Education, and Finance Committees.

Jennifer has been a powerful advocate for language access, inclusion, and community leadership. Through efforts like the Central Providence Opportunities Initiative and WRWC’s Nuevas Voces program, she has helped open doors for residents, particularly Spanish-speaking community members, who have historically been excluded from environmental spaces. Her lived experience, commitment to equity, and love for this river guide her leadership.

“I am honored to be nominated as President of the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council,” shared Jennifer.
“The Woonasquatucket River runs through some of the most diverse communities in our state, and my commitment is to ensure it remains a clean, accessible, and welcoming space for everyone who calls its watershed home. I look forward to continuing our work to center environmental justice, uplift community voices, and build an inclusive future for the river and the people it connects.”

“Me siento honrado de ser nominado como Presidente del Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council,” agregó Jennifer.
“El río Woonasquatucket atraviesa algunas de las comunidades más diversas de nuestro estado, y mi compromiso es asegurar que siga siendo un espacio limpio, accesible y acogedor para todas las personas que viven en su cuenca. Espero continuar nuestro trabajo para centrar la justicia ambiental, elevar las voces comunitarias y construir un futuro inclusivo para el río y las personas que conecta.”

Congratulations to Our New Vice President: Elder González Trejo

We are also proud to share that Elder González Trejo has been elected Vice President of the Board.

Elder’s relationship with WRWC and the watershed is lifelong. He grew up in the Woonasquatucket River watershed and has served the organization both as a Board member and previously as Community Programs Director. His leadership reflects WRWC’s commitment to accountability, integrity, and community-driven environmental work.

“The WRWC exists to protect, restore, and steward the Woonasquatucket River watershed through community-driven programs, education, advocacy, and partnerships,” said Elder.
“I am proud to serve in leadership at an organization that not only talks about its values but also lives them every day.”

Elder has also shared his excitement about supporting Jennifer’s leadership, recognizing her deep roots, institutional knowledge, and lived connection to the river as essential strengths for WRWC’s future.

Additional Governance Updates

Alongside these leadership changes, we want to share a few additional Board updates:

  • Brian Platt has stepped down from his role as Board Secretary, and we are grateful for his service and contributions.

  • We are excited to welcome Hannah Martin as our new Board Secretary. Hannah is also the Executive Director of Revive the Roots in Smithfield and brings valuable nonprofit leadership experience and regional perspective to WRWC.

With Deep Gratitude: Thank You, Laureen Ratti

As we celebrate new leadership, we also want to pause and express our heartfelt thanks to Laureen Ratti, who has completed her term as Board Chair.

Laureen joined the WRWC Board in October 2013 and has been a steady, thoughtful leader for more than a decade. Before stepping into the Chair role in 2020, she served as Vice President, Secretary, and Development Committee Chair. Her financial expertise, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication helped guide WRWC through years of growth and transformation.

“It has been a joy to witness WRWC’s growth over the last decade, especially the growing of leaders and stewards such as our new board leadership and Nuevas Voces,” shared Laureen.
“From concept to more than 50 residents, I’m looking forward to celebrating our 25-year anniversary and the next chapter on our way to a clean, fishable, and swimmable Woonasquatucket River.”

Our Executive Director, Alicia J. Lehrer, added:

“Laureen’s leadership, institutional knowledge, and commitment to WRWC have left a lasting impact on this organization. We are deeply grateful for her service.”

Looking Ahead

As we step into this next chapter during our 25th anniversary year, we are energized by leadership that reflects the communities we serve and the values we hold close. With Jennifer, Elder, and our full Board alongside our incredible staff and partners, we remain committed to protecting and restoring the Woonasquatucket River through education, advocacy, recreation, and community-driven action.