After 8 years, the executive director is set to have a ‘bittersweet’ transition ahead, moving on to Friends of Acadia
Nov. 3, 2026
By Staff
Julia Zell will begin her new position in January 2027 at Friends of Acadia. Photo courtesy of Island Hertiage Trust.
DEER ISLE–On Oct. 26, Island Heritage Trust announced that its executive director, Julia Zell, is stepping down and accepting a new position in January of next year as vice president of advancement at Friends of Acadia, a nonprofit that aims to protect and preserve Acadia.
Zell joined IHT in 2019 as development director and quickly landed her current role in 2020. During her tenure, the trust has achieved national accreditation, strengthened its financial foundation, and expanded its conservation and stewardship capacity, according to a press release from the organization.
Zell will remain with IHT for the remainder of 2026 to provide a smooth transition and continuity in the organization's programs, operations, and partnerships. The Board of Trustees did not announce a process for her replacement, and said it will share additional information as plans are finalized.
“Julia has been an extraordinary leader for Island Heritage Trust, and we are deeply grateful for all she has contributed to this organization and our community," Catherine Washburn said, chair of the Trust’s Board of Trustees. "Her vision, dedication, and ability to bring people together have been instrumental in IHT's success. While we will certainly miss her leadership, we are enormously proud of her accomplishments and excited to see her take this next step in her career.”
Zell said that her occupational transition is bittersweet.
"Island Heritage Trust has been an incredibly meaningful part of my life, both personally and professionally, and leaving an organization and community I care so deeply about is not easy,” Zell said. “I'm immensely proud of what we've accomplished together. None of this work happens without the dedication of our Trustees, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners. I'm grateful for the trust and support I've received, and I’m confident IHT has an exciting future ahead."
Zell is the second local land trust leader to announce leaving. Last month, George Fields, executive director at Blue Hill Heritage Trust, announced he will be retiring in February next year. The Blue Hill-based organization said it would be launching a natyionwide search for the new director.
