The Marginal Way Welcomes Five New Board Members
The Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF) is proud to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors: Dr. Charlie Smith, Eric Stoclet, Kate Manko, Paul Kapela, and Wendy Barbrick. Each brings a unique perspective, professional expertise, and a deep personal connection to the Marginal Way—Ogunquit’s treasured coastal path celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
“As we mark this extraordinary Centennial milestone, we are honored to welcome such an accomplished and thoughtful group of new board members,” said Charlie Hindmarsh, President of the MWPF. “Each has deep roots in Ogunquit and a strong commitment to preserving the Marginal Way for future generations.”
Meet the New Board Members
Dr. Charlie Smith
A resident of Ogunquit, Dr. Smith serves as Chief Medical Officer at AON and brings decades of leadership in healthcare strategy and global medical innovation. His career includes product development and healthcare initiatives across Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, the UAE, and Great Britain. Dr. Smith has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and St. Peter’s by the Sea. He and his husband, Richard, are passionate supporters of the arts and historic preservation.
Eric Stoclet
Born in New York City and raised in Brussels, Belgium, Eric holds dual citizenship and speaks six languages. His global journey has included time living and working in the United States, Tunisia, Morocco, Argentina, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, along with extensive solo travel through Central and South America. Eric’s 40-year career spans finance and real estate leadership roles at Citigroup and other financial institutions. Now retired and residing in Ogunquit with his wife Lisa, Eric brings a global perspective and deep financial expertise that will support the Fund’s financial analysis and investment strategy.
Kate Manko
A lifelong Mainer, Kate is a nationally respected dealer in American folk art and was raised in Moody, Maine, immersed in her family business, Manko Antiques & American Folk Art. A graduate of Syracuse University, Kate is a licensed Maine auctioneer, New England appraiser, and has curated notable exhibitions throughout her career. She has been featured on the cover of Antiques & The Arts Weekly. Kate lives in York, Maine, with her husband Ryan and son Maverick and is deeply committed to preservation, community, and introducing the next generation to cultural stewardship.
Paul Kapela
Paul is the founder of Chatham Furniture in Amesbury, Massachusetts, which he co-founded with his late partner, Russell Clevesy. With decades of experience in business leadership, craftsmanship, and community development, Paul brings valuable insight to the Board. Former residents of Ogunquit, Paul and Russell shared countless mornings watching the sunrise from the Marginal Way—moments that fostered a lifelong appreciation for the path by the sea and the community surrounding it.
Wendy Barbrick
With more than 35 years of experience in real estate and the hospitality industry, Wendy brings both professional insight and deep personal passion to the MWPF. Along with her love for the ocean and the Marginal Way, Wendy enjoys gourmet cooking and gardening. She and her husband Rick divide their time between Wells, Maine, and Naples, Florida. Long-time supporters of the Fund and proud plaque holders at Serenity Point, Wendy and Rick are deeply committed to ensuring the Marginal Way’s long-term preservation.
Looking Ahead
“The diverse expertise of our new board members, paired with their shared love for the Marginal Way, will be instrumental in advancing our mission,” said Allison Ramsey, Executive Director of the Marginal Way Preservation Fund. “I am honored to work alongside this talented Board as we continue building a strong, lasting endowment to protect one of Maine’s most cherished coastal landmarks—now and for generations to come.”
