Baltimore, August 23, 2007 - The National Aquarium in Baltimore's Board of Directors has elected Michael J. Batza, Jr. Chair of the Board. Mr. Batza is Chairman and CEO of Heritage Properties, Inc., a commercial real estate development company, and has served on the Aquarium Board for 6 years. He succeeds Timothy L. Scheve.
"Mike's business success and long track record of community service make him a great fit with the National Aquarium in Baltimore," explains David Pittenger, executive director of the Aquarium. "His experience will help us extend our reach, while guiding the Aquarium's business and mission decisions."
"I am honored to serve as the National Aquarium's Board Chair and I look forward to guiding this impressive Board at a time when their valued experience and leadership will be so critical," Batza said. "The next several years hold many exciting opportunities as the Aquarium Board focuses on its vision for the National Aquarium here and in DC. In Baltimore, the Center for Aquatic Life and Conservation presents a great opportunity along with its many challenges!"
Batza will serve with several new officers on the Aquarium Board of Directors, including: Chair Elect William R. Roberts, Vice Chair Jennifer W. Reynolds, Treasurer William D. Norton and Secretary Jane W. I. Droppa.
The National Aquarium in Baltimore, a non-profit organization, is Maryland's most exciting and popular cultural attraction, as well as one of the region's leading conservation and education resources, hosting more than 1.6 million visitors per year. The Aquarium's vision is to be the global leader in fostering stewardship of the aquatic environment. It is dedicated to education and conservation through more than a dozen programs that serve the environment and the community.
