When DU talks about passion, Rick Baumann could be the poster boy! For over 30 years this long-time DU supporter has served the organization as a volunteer. Now, Rick has turned over the reigns of the Grand Strand Chapter, one of the Top 100 chapters in the nation, to serve DU in a new capacity - state Life Sponsor Chairman.
Rick is not only a long-time volunteer, he's also a major donor. In fact, he has just completed his Diamond Life Sponsorship and has upgraded to Sponsor in Perpetuity. Rick first became involved with DU in the late 1960's, and first became a leader in the organization by becoming chairman of the Grand Strand Chapter in 1975 under then Regional Director Dan Denton. He was instrumental in first starting DU chapters in Conway and Georgetown and also worked tirelessly with Marvin Davant and Coy Johnston to make our state duck stamp program a reality. Rick hasn't stopped his hard work on behalf of the ducks. In fact, his efforts as the chairman of the Grand Strand Chapter and in numerous other areas earned him the State Chairman's Perpetual Trophy just this past year.
Rick's new challenge is an important one. As DU continues through its Wetlands for Tomorrow Campaign Rick and his team in South Carolina will work to recruit new life sponsors in the state. Major Donors, from the life sponsor level and above are critical to the success of the Wetlands for Tomorrow Campaign and thus the success of DU's conservation goals.
Congratulations, Rick, on your new leadership role with DU in South Carolina!