The staff and trustees of the Columbia Land Conservancy are saddened to announce the tragic loss of board member, friend, and champion for conservation Julia Ritchie.
Julia joined the board in October 2025 and quickly became a key part of the organization, drawing on her decades of experience to help nonprofit organizations succeed. In every meeting, she was a kind, thoughtful, committed presence.
“When I spoke at an event, I’d look for Julia in the crowd,” says CLC President Troy Weldy. “I’d always see her listening intently with a warm smile on her face. That’s just the kind of person she was – not only committed to conservation, but also to making sure the people doing the work were cared for as well.”
Peter Reed, Chair of CLC’s Board, shares, “Julia will be dearly missed by her colleagues and friends on the board. Though our time together was far too brief, her impact on the land she loved will endure.”
We share our deepest condolences with Julia’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
