Lagoon Champion Award Recipients
Wayne Mills
Retired CWC Board Member
Wayne A. Mills has been a passionate advocate for clean water and healthy ecosystems in his community. After working to restore the Chesapeake Bay, he brought that same dedication and experience to the Indian River Lagoon. Wayne has been actively involved in local efforts to protect the lagoon, sharing his knowledge and pushing for smarter solutions to improve water quality. Through his work with the Clean Water Coalition, he’s helped bring people and organizations together to speak up for the environment. We welcome his continued input as an Emeritus Board Member.
Jean Catchpole
Retired CWC Board Member
Jean Catchpole, former board member of the Clean Water Coalition, has been a thoughtful and committed voice for the health of the Indian River Lagoon. A longtime kayaker and nature lover, Jean brought both personal experience and practical insight to her advocacy. Whether raising awareness about the impacts of runoff after heavy rains or encouraging residents to follow seasonal fertilizer bans, she has consistently helped educate, using her compelling writing.
Duane De Freese
IRLNEP
Recognized as an Indian River Lagoon Champion in February 2025, Dr. De Freese served as Executive Director of the Indian River Lagoon Council for 10 years, where he brought together diverse stakeholders to create comprehensive restoration plans for the 156-mile estuary. His leadership resulted in securing significant funding, including a $9.4 million NOAA Grant for Habitat Restoration, and the completion of 252 restoration projects throughout the lagoon system. With advanced degrees from the Florida Institute of Technology (MS and PhD), Dr. De Freese has distinguished himself in academia, non-profit work, and government service, earning multiple accolades including the 2024 Environmental Science Award, 2023 Water Champions Award, and induction into the Florida Hall of Fame by the Brevard Zoo in 2022. His practical approach to environmental policy and dedication to coastal management has made him a respected figure in shaping environmental policy and securing vital resources for lagoon preservation.
