Friends of the Earth Mourns the Passing of Board Vice Chair Nancy Metayer

Friends of the Earth is profoundly saddened by the loss of Nancy Metayer. Nancy was a shining light in a darkening world – an environmental scientist who served on Friends of the Earth’s Board of Directors, the first Black and Haitan American woman elected to the Coral Springs Commission, and a tireless champion for Haitian immigrants and her community.  

“I am at a loss. I mourn for her family, the people of Coral Springs, and for an amazing person whose life ended far too early,” said Friends of the Earth President Erich Pica.  

Nancy was a rising star in Florida and national politics, most recently serving as Vice Mayor of Coral Springs and Vice Chair of the Florida Democratic Party. An unwavering environmental and humanitarian advocate, Nancy worked as a legal and outreach intern with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and later on Haiti relief. She joined Broward County’s Junior Sustainability Stewards Program and was elected to the Broward Soil and Water Conservation District.

Nancy joined Friends of the Earth’s Board of Directors in 2022, enthusiastically recommended by Meghan Sahli Wells, then-mayor of Culver City. As vice chair of the board, Nancy ensured space for all perspectives and voices and advocated for staff wellness. She always centered on environmental justice and Democracy for all peoples. She brought deep moral clarity to every board discussion.

“All of us on the Friends of the Earth Board are devastated by this tragedy. Nancy brought sunshine and kindness into every room she entered, mixed with a passion for justice, environmental science, women’s rights, and the dignity of the immigrant communities she defended,” said Jeffrey Glueck, Chair of the Friends of the Earth Board of Directors. “Nancy would be the first to tell us to keep up her work and not falter, and Friends of the Earth will look for an enduring way to honor her and her work in the days to come.” 

Nancy worked to make the world a better place, not for accolades but because she passionately believed in helping others. She was inspiring, purposeful, and she led with her heart.  

Nancy will be greatly missed.