Audubon Society of Rhode Island Elects Board President
Richard Staples Jr. takes the helm of the organization following an annual meeting in Providence.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in People
The Audubon Society of Rhode Island has elected Richard Staples Jr. as the new president of its board of directors. The announcement followed the organization's annual meeting held at the Roger Williams Park Casino.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a new chapter for the conservation organization as it continues its mission across Rhode Island. The board transition ensures ongoing oversight for the society's regional nature centers and environmental initiatives.
Richard Staples Jr. brings a 50-year career in banking and finance to his new role. The board also elected two new members, Melissa Kollitides and Earl Simson, during the October 18 meeting.
The players
Richard Staples Jr.
He is a finance professional who has served on the Audubon Society of Rhode Island board since 2023.
Audubon Society of Rhode Island
This is a non-profit organization based in Smithfield that focuses on environmental conservation and education.
Melissa Kollitides
She is a newly elected member of the Audubon Society of Rhode Island board of directors.
Earl Simson
He is a newly elected member of the Audubon Society of Rhode Island board of directors.
The details
Staples previously served on the board starting in 2023 and acted as vice president since 2025. He also served as the chair of the governance committee and was recognized alongside his wife as a Volunteer of the Year in 2021.
Timeline
Richard Staples Jr. was elected board president on Oct. 18, 2026.
Staples joined the Audubon board in 2023.
Staples began serving as board vice president in 2025.
Staples served as Leadership Rhode Island's resident photographer from 2013 to 2026.
Staples and his wife were named Volunteers of the Year in 2021.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition reflects the ongoing institutional evolution within Rhode Island's non-profit sector. It reinforces the board's stability following the pattern set by the 2021 Audubon Society of Rhode Island Volunteer of the Year award.
Members and supporters can expect continued administrative oversight for local programs, including the Audubon Nature Center in Bristol. The board's new composition may influence future local outreach efforts across the state.
The takeaway
The appointment of a long-time volunteer and committee chair suggests a commitment to internal stability and institutional memory. Interested residents should continue to monitor the organization's public meetings for updates on upcoming environmental initiatives.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership developments in Rhode Island People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Providence Business News.
