The staff goes the extra mile to ensure that your experience is exceptional!
The Friends of Boca Grande team has earned immense recognition and praise from the organization’s board, program presenters, community leaders, and most importantly, the island residents who attend the center’s programs.
Marta Howell – Executive Director
Marta is a graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in Urban Planning. She was hired as Executive Director for Friends in 2010. She has held position of Executive Director with the M.S. Hershey Foundation and Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek, and served as interim executive director for numerous nonprofit organizations in a consulting capacity. Marta enjoys cooking, reading, and boating.
D.J. Keisling – Operations Director
Keisling, a Pittsburgh native, graduated in 1987 from Edinboro (PA) with a B.S. in Health and Physical Education with minors in Fitness Management and Athletic Coaching. He has retired from teaching at L. A. Ainger Middle School in Rotonda West where he started in 1994. He has coached football, wrestling, and track for 15 years at Lemon Bay High School. D.J. and his lovely wife of 35 years, Janine, have two children, Trent and Alannah, who graduated from Thiel College in PA. Both went on to acquire their Masters degrees. He has been with the Friends since April 1995.
Kyle Rich – Technical Director
Kyle has spent more than a decade growing with Friends, turning creative ideas into meaningful experiences for the community. His work spans live event production, technical infrastructure, and organizational strategic planning, placing him uniquely at the intersection of artistry, innovation, and leadership. Kyle's creative drive today has lead him to build systems that make complex tasks more efficient in order to keep collaboration and human experience at the center. He thrives on transforming vision into moments that inspire and connect.
Martina Long – Program Director
Martina brings a unique mix of nonprofit experience and a love for the performing arts, blending her skills in operations with her creative side! With a proven track record in leading high-profile events and performances, Martina's career is a dynamic blend of arts and operations. Before joining Friends of Boca Grande, she served as Operations Manager for United Arts Collier, the state-recognized local arts agency in Collier County.  In this role, she was instrumental in the planning and execution of numerous successful events that brought together artists, performers, and the local community.  In addition, Martina is a professional vocalist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Florida Southern College. Her performance career has taken her around the world, headlining one-woman shows aboard major cruise lines. Martina also continues to perform and serves as a booking agent for various tribute bands, maintaining a strong network of talented performers and variety acts.Â
Tammy Rigney – Program Coordinator
A native Floridian and Florida Master Naturalist, Tammy began her career with the Florida Park Service, where she worked both field and administrative roles. She joined Friends of Boca Grande to broaden her experience and contribute to the arts and educational programming that enriches the island community. Tammy has 4 children-Hunter, Logan, Meadow, and Cody- she enjoys kayaking, paddle boarding, gardening, and hiking. Tammy values the connection between nature, learning, the arts, and supports programs that foster appreciation for the environment and help others recognize the importance of protecting natural spaces for future generations.
Wendi Mahurin – Executive Assistant
Wendi Mahurin brings decades of experience in administration, customer service, and public sector operations to Friends of Boca Grande. Before joining the organization, she worked for Charlotte County Public Schools in Florida and previously served in local government in Indiana, where she supported daily operations, coordinated administrative functions, and provided exceptional service to the public. Her extensive background in organizational support, communication, and problem-solving makes her an invaluable resource for both staff and patrons. Outside of work, Wendi enjoys spending time with her family, boating, and making the most of Florida's beautiful waterfront lifestyle.
Emma Passey – Program Assistant
Emma joined Friends of Boca Grande at the end of 2025, bringing more than five years of professional experience in nonprofit communications, research, and digital marketing. Originally from New Jersey, she earned both her Master's degree in Political Science and her Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Digital Communication, Information & Media from Rutgers University–New Brunswick. As Program Assistant, Emma supports the planning and execution of the Friends' diverse lineup of programs and events while also managing many of the organization's communications efforts, including the website, email marketing, promotional materials, social media, and advertising coordination. Passionate about connecting audiences with meaningful cultural and educational experiences, Emma enjoys using strategic communications to strengthen community engagement. In her free time, she enjoys reading, needlepointing, attending concerts, and exploring her new home state of Florida.
Robert Baker – Production Assistant
With over ten years of experience helping operate a local, family owned business, Robert has developed strong hands on skills and work ethic. As part of the production team he takes pride in being dependable, detail oriented, and always ready to help where needed. In his free time he enjoys photography, drawing, music, and films from all generations. He brings that creative perspective into his work and is excited to continue growing as part of the team at Friends.
Judith Prestia – Receptionist
Judy is thrilled to be part of Friends of Boca Grande, bringing with her 25 years of experience in administrative management and purchasing. Prior to joining Friends of Boca Grande, she served as the Administrative Manager and Purchaser for True Value Hardware, where she honed her organizational expertise. Outside work, Judy enjoys spending quality time with her wonderful family.