The Everglades Foundation Appoints Yezid Acosta as Digital Strategy Director to Enhance Technology Operations

The Everglades Foundation Welcomes Yezid Acosta as Director of Digital Strategy

On March 6, 2025, The Everglades Foundation announced the appointment of Yezid Acosta as the organization's first Director of Digital Strategy and Information Technology. This pivotal role, generously funded by a grant from the Knight Foundation, aims to leverage modern technology to propel the foundation's mission of restoring the Everglades through innovative scientific and educational initiatives.

Acosta's responsibilities will include managing the complex data framework of The Everglades Foundation and supervising a newly established IT environment. He aims to enhance operational efficiency continuously while shaping the foundation's approach to data analytics and communications. This new direction is part of a larger strategy to bolster the foundation's overall effectiveness and its ability to convey critical information about Everglades restoration to stakeholders and the public.

Acosta brings a wealth of experience to this role, having a notable history in digital and IT leadership across multiple organizations. Most recently, he held similar positions at NYC Kids Rise and Rising Ground, among others. His unique blend of technical skills and collaborative spirit has enabled him to work closely with partners on developing cutting-edge mobile retail solutions, reminiscent of Apple's shopping experience. His depth of experience working with software developers and digital product designers has equipped him with the tools necessary to succeed in his new position.

The foundation highlighted Acosta's appointment as a strategic opportunity to harness the potential of digital technology. Marta Viciedo, Miami Director at Knight Foundation, stated, "We see this new role as crucial for advancing Everglades restoration through science, education, and communications." This view underscores the foundation's commitment to integrating science and technology in its operational strategies.

Eric Eikenberg, CEO of The Everglades Foundation, expressed optimism about the impact of Acosta's leadership, saying, "With the support of the Knight Foundation and the appointment of Yezid, we will utilize new technology to assist our scientific endeavors while actively engaging with decision-makers, educators, and the public about the importance of Everglades restoration."

The Everglades Foundation Background

Founded in 1993, The Everglades Foundation is dedicated to the restoration and protection of the intricate ecosystem of the Everglades. With a team of renowned scientists, educators, and communications professionals, the foundation's mission is to advocate for clean water flow and to implement practical restoration methods. The foundation's work is not only critical for environmental stability but also aims to educate the public and foster collaborative efforts across different sectors.

Throughout its history, The Everglades Foundation has played a significant role in advocating for policies that prioritize environmental health and sustainability. By integrating science and technology into their frameworks, the foundation aims to remain at the forefront of conservation efforts and public engagement.

Yezid Acosta's appointment symbolizes a commitment to innovation and a proactive approach toward utilizing data and technology in environmental advocacy. With his extensive background and strategic vision, Acosta is set to lead The Everglades Foundation into a new era of digital engagement and operational efficacy.

For more information on The Everglades Foundation and its initiatives, you can visit their website at EvergladesFoundation.org.