The New Canaan Men’s Club will hear from Robin Bates-Mason, recently named executive director of the New Canaan Land Trust, at its meeting on Friday, Sept. 26, in Morrill Hall at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.
The meeting begins at 10 a.m., with Bates-Mason’s presentation scheduled for 10:40 a.m., following the business portion of the program. She will discuss the Land Trust’s work overseeing more than 400 acres of protected open space, its network of nature trails, educational programming, and partnerships that advance local conservation. Appointed executive director in June, Bates-Mason will also outline the organization’s future plans.
Bates-Mason has been a dedicated member of the New Canaan community for more than 25 years. With her husband Carl, she raised two sons: Peter, who now works in Washington, D.C., and Gavin, currently studying at Rice University.
Her civic career began with her election to the New Canaan Town Council, followed by her appointment as Chairman of the Conservation Commission. She went on to co-found Planet New Canaan, a nonprofit focused on sustainability and environmental education. As its president, she spearheaded initiatives such as opening the Swap Shop, pumpkin and Christmas tree recycling, Clean Your Mile, and local river cleanups.
She also served a term as co-president of the New Canaan Beautification League and led the town’s Sustainability Team, guiding New Canaan to earn Bronze certification from Sustainable CT.
Reflecting on her new role, Bates-Mason has expressed enthusiasm for continuing her lifelong environmental work: “I’m excited to now be part of the New Canaan Land Trust, helping to protect and steward open space in New Canaan.”
The Men’s Club, open to men age 55 and older, welcomes new members. For information, email ncmens@ncmens.info
