Release: Charles River Watershed Association Announces New Staff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
Contact: Carly Sherman, Communications Manager
Phone: 774-222-1330
Email: csherman@crwa.org
BOSTON, MA — Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) is pleased to announce the addition of several new staff members to its growing team.
Linda Orel joins as Chief Impact Officer, overseeing the organization’s advocacy, legal, and communications teams. In this role, Linda develops, implements, and supports a comprehensive strategy to strengthen community engagement across the Charles River watershed. Previously, Linda served as the Chief Impact Officer with Boston Harbor Now, where she oversaw policy, planning, and programs; helped create new climate policies for the Stone Living Lab’s climate adaptation initiatives; and implemented a new MOU with the City of Boston. Throughout her career in natural resource conservation, restoration, and climate advocacy, Linda has worked with The Trustees of Reservations, The Trust for Public Land, and the Mass Association of Conservation Commissions; and taught programs at the Boston Museum of Science.
“I’m honored to collaborate with the exceptionally talented team at CRWA to protect and restore the Charles, harnessing science, policy, and the law. Together, we’ll improve freshwater biodiversity, increase resilience, enhance equitable access, and protect public health - meeting the environmental challenges of our time,” said Linda Orel.
Max Rome joins as Clean Water Director, working closely with CRWA’s program teams, providing robust technical support for our growing advocacy/engagement team to supercharge efforts for a clean and swimmable Charles River. Max returns to CRWA from the City of Boston where he served as the Director of Green Infrastructure. Previously Max was CRWA’s Senior Stormwater Program Manager. In these roles he worked to advance projects and policies that reduce untreated runoff and help to green communities throughout the Charles River Watershed.
“The restoration of the Charles and its watershed is a lifelong passion of mine. I am thrilled to be back at CRWA, proud to work with the great team here, and excited for the opportunity to lead CRWA’s flagship program in monitoring water quality and turning those insights into impactful projects and policies”, said Max Rome.
Maria Galarza joins as Director of People and Operations, providing strategic leadership for human resources, DEI initiatives, organizational operations, and financial oversight at CRWA. She partners with senior leadership to foster an inclusive workplace, improve organizational effectiveness, and equip employees with the resources they need to succeed. Previously, Maria served as Director of Administration & Finance for Northeastern University, where she managed HR, finance, and operations across multiple departments.
“I’m proud to support the talent and operational infrastructure that power CRWA’s impact, helping secure a brighter future for the Charles River for generations to come,” said Maria Galarza.
José Eguigure joins as Director of Donor Engagement, building the relationships needed to connect philanthropic investments and resources to support CRWA’s long-term goals. José is an entrepreneur and strategic connector with deep expertise in building partnerships, mobilizing capital, and fundraising for mission-driven organizations across the nonprofit, deeptech, and innovation ecosystems in the Americas. He has advised companies and organizations such as CEMEX, Ginkgo Bioworks, Ranger Software Group, and CareGo, and co-led business development resulting in seven- and eight-figure grants for nonprofits such as Global Communities and Hunger Relief International.
“I am quite honored to join this great team and support its current efforts of bringing resources and philanthropic investments to advance its mission. The Charles River has been my sanctuary, and it should be accessible and swimmable to everyone. It’s an iconic piece woven into what Boston is for us”, said José Eguigure.
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Charles River Watershed Association’s mission is to protect, restore and enhance the Charles River and its watershed through science, advocacy, and the law. CRWA develops science-based strategies to increase resilience, protect public health, and promote environmental equity as we confront a changing climate.
