Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors, Rich Hannan and Gary Chenoweth. Both bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to conservation and community engagement.
Rich Hannan is a retired research scientist whose career focused on the conservation of plant genetic resources. He spent decades with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service as a Research Leader within the National Plant Germplasm System, leading scientific teams, conducting research, and publishing extensively. His work included international expeditions to collect and preserve plant germplasm critical to global agriculture.
Since moving to northern Michigan in 2008, Rich has been deeply involved in the local nonprofit community. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Grass River Natural Area (2009–2012 and 2015–2023), the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation (2012–2021), and the Antrim County High Tea for Breast Cancer Prevention (2008–2012). He also stepped into a leadership role as Executive Director of Grass River Natural Area in 2013, helping guide the organization during a period of transition.
Gary Chenoweth is a retired business leader who spent 35 years with the global agriculture company Bunge/Central Soya. Now a resident of Elk Rapids, Gary is deeply involved in the local community, serving as President of ACTS, the Acme Christian Thrift Store and Food Pantry, and as a member of the Rotary Club of Elk Rapids, where he also served as District 6290 Governor from 2021–2022. His connection to the area runs deep through his wife’s family, whose roots in Elk Rapids date back to the 1920s.
Both Rich and Gary have longstanding connections to Paddle Antrim and share a passion for protecting the Chain of Lakes and expanding nonmotorized access. Rich participated in the Short’s to Short’s paddle before it became the Paddle Antrim Festival, witnessing Paddle Antrim’s growth from an idea into a thriving nonprofit. Gary also took part in an early Festival and has continued to stay involved as a volunteer, inspired by the community and mission and supporting efforts from shore and beyond.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rich and Gary to our Board of Directors,” said Deana Jerdee, executive director. “Their combined expertise in conservation, leadership, and community service will help strengthen our work to protect, connect, and educate through the waters of Northern Michigan.”