Stacy Cachules

Stacy Cachules brings more than two decades of conservation leadership, nonprofit management, and fundraising expertise to her role as Executive Director of River Network.

Most recently, Stacy served as Chief Operating Officer at Central Indiana Land Trust, where she led advancement, operations, and finance for 15 years. During her tenure, the organization experienced significant growth, built strong financial reserves, and expanded from 3 to 13 staff members. She successfully managed multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns and cultivated transformational gifts.

Prior to her work in Indiana, Stacy spent six years with Forterra (formerly Cascade Land Conservancy), one of Washington State’s largest land conservation organizations, further strengthening her expertise in land conservation and nonprofit management.

Stacy’s fundraising expertise includes developing sustainable revenue models, cultivating major donors, and building foundation partnerships. She holds a B.S. in Public and Environmental Affairs from Indiana University and a Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership from the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

She has served on several nonprofit boards, including more than a decade as President of the Indiana Wildlife Federation, and currently serves as Treasurer of the Indiana Land Protection Alliance.

Summer adventures in Michigan

What called you to work in water?

From a young age, I always knew I would do something to better this magnificent planet we call home. I have been in awe of the beauty and strength of nature for as long as I can remember. As a kid, you could usually find me deep in the forest or stomping through a creek. My love for and passion for advocating for the natural world is something I feel I was born with.

Why is equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) important in your work?

I believe every person has an important story to tell and a voice that deserves to be heard. Bringing together people with different lived experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds is when the most powerful change and meaningful work can happen. Water connects everyone and access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right.

Stacy and her family in Norway.

What was your earliest memory around water?

Trips to Lake Michigan as a kid are some of my earliest and fondest memories. I have such wonderful memories of summers in Michigan, and I’m thrilled that I now get to experience it again through my children’s eyes.

How do you recharge outside of work?

Travel, travel, travel! When I’m not working, my family and I love exploring the world together. We also enjoy spending weekends on Lake Michigan and discovering new places. When we’re not traveling, much of my weekends are spent helping my sons find new fishing spots.