The 2026 keynote speaker, is Rich Cochran, a nationally recognized conservation leader and President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Reserve Land Conservancy. In his role, he oversees a broad range of organizational priorities, including fundraising, real estate transactions, strategic planning, corporate management, finance, and public engagement.

His leadership has helped position the Land Conservancy as a leading force in land conservation and community revitalization. In addition to his work at the Conservancy, Rich is also a professional executive coach, advising leaders and organizations on strategy, performance, and growth. Rich is a frequent speaker at national conferences, including the Land Trust Alliance’s National Land Conservation Conference (Rally), where he shares insights on strategy and impact.

He is a graduate of Middlebury College and pursued graduate studies at the University of Vermont’s School of Natural Resources. Deeply engaged in civic and professional leadership, Rich is a member of the Hiram College Garfield Society and the Young Presidents’ Organization, and he is a founder of Chagrin River Watershed Partners. He is also an alumnus of Leadership Cleveland and has served on numerous boards of directors. Rich lives in Shaker Heights, OH with his wife and their two dogs.