The Board of Directors of Crystal Cove Conservancy in Newport Beach has announced the promotion of President Hallie Jones to Chief Executive Officer, effective August 26. Jones succeeds Kate Wheeler, who is stepping down after seven years as CEO to become President and CEO of the Catalina Island Conservancy.
Jones, who serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Laguna Beach, joined Crystal Cove Conservancy as Executive Vice President in 2023. Most recently promoted to President of the Conservancy, Jones has played a key role in expanding the Conservancy’s education and conservation programs, growing its base of philanthropic support, and leading organizational operations across both Crystal Cove Conservancy and Crystal Cove Management Company.
Her promotion to CEO reflects the Board’s confidence in her leadership and her deep commitment to the Conservancy’s mission of protecting, preserving, and sharing Crystal Cove’s natural and cultural resources.
“We are delighted to welcome Hallie as our Chief Executive Officer,” said Board Chair Teddie Ray. “Throughout her tenure, Hallie has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. Her accomplishments, strong community relationships, and ability to inspire others make her uniquely qualified to lead Crystal Cove Conservancy into its next exciting chapter.”
Ray also expressed the Board’s appreciation for Wheeler’s seven years of service.
“We are deeply grateful to Kate for her outstanding leadership and dedication,” Ray said. “Her vision has strengthened the Conservancy in the transformation of our education programs, the restoration of the Historic District, the expansion of the Conservancy’s conservation work, and the strong partnerships and philanthropic support that have positioned the Conservancy for its next chapter. We congratulate Kate on her appointment as President and CEO of the Catalina Island Conservancy and wish her every success in this exciting new role.”
Jones, who has worked alongside Wheeler for nearly three years, said the transition feels like a natural evolution for the organization.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence in me to serve as Crystal Cove Conservancy’s next CEO to build on Kate’s remarkable work. I know firsthand the exceptional talent of the team – including California State Parks – I will be working alongside, as well as the dedication of our Board, supporters, and extraordinary corps of volunteers, all of whom care deeply about Crystal Cove. Together, we will continue to expand our impact, strengthen our programs, and ensure this extraordinary place is protected and enjoyed by generations to come.”
Wheeler said serving as CEO has been one of the greatest privileges of her career, and expressed her confidence in Jones’ leadership.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Hallie every day for the past several years, and I’ve seen firsthand the kind of leader she is. She brings wisdom, steadiness, curiosity, and deep commitment to this organization. I couldn’t be more confident in Crystal Cove’s future under her leadership.”
Jones will officially assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on August 26.
Crystal Cove Conservancy is the nonprofit partner of Crystal Cove State Park, dedicated to protecting, restoring, and sharing the park’s natural, cultural, and historic resources through education, conservation, and stewardship. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, the Conservancy works to ensure Crystal Cove remains a place of inspiration and discovery for generations to come.
For more information, visit https://crystalcove.org.
