FARMINGTON — The High Peaks Alliance is proud to welcome three new members to its board of directors: Phil Coffin of Carrabassett Valley, Rebecca Goldfine of West Bath and Caulin Parker of Rangeley. Each new director brings a deep connection to the High Peaks region and a shared commitment to preserving access for recreation.
A retired lawyer and longtime Sugarloafer, Coffin has been skiing Western Maine’s slopes since 1968 and has called Carrabassett Valley home since 2000. Coffin previously served on the boards of Maine Huts & Trails and the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, bringing a strong background in outdoor advocacy and nonprofit governance.
“Given changing land ownership, it’s important for us to work collaboratively with landowners, municipalities, and other organizations to preserve access to the Western Maine wilderness and to improve trails and other infrastructure,” Coffin said.
Goldfine joins the board as secretary. A lifelong Mainer and the creator of Maine by Foot, one of the state’s most comprehensive online trail guides, Goldfine co-authored the “Scenic 7 Hiking Challenge” in partnership with High Peaks Alliance.
Professionally, Goldfine is a public relations and communications specialist with extensive experience in higher education and the nonprofit sector. Before transitioning to PR, she worked as a newspaper reporter in Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire. Currently, she writes stories for Bowdoin College’s news outlets and alumni magazine.
“I love to share stories, a skill I’ve developed over the years as a journalist,” Goldfine said. “I value public access to trails made possible by generous landowners and the work of land trusts and conservation organizations. Joining the High Peaks Alliance board is a natural extension of my passion for Maine’s landscapes and public recreation.”
Parker, a commercial lender with Franklin Savings Bank, grew up immersed in the outdoor opportunities of the High Peaks region. “Having the privilege to grow up in the area, I’ve experienced the benefits of the High Peaks region for my entire life,” he said. “It’s important that people continue to have access to these local gems, which aligns perfectly with the values of the High Peaks Alliance.”
Parker shared that he was inspired to serve on the board by the Alliance’s “desire to listen and act on direct feedback from the community regarding conservation, access, and collaboration.” He hopes to help ensure that future generations can enjoy the same opportunities for hiking, snowmobiling, and recreation that residents experience today.
High Peaks Alliance extends heartfelt gratitude to outgoing board members Dana Bowman, Darryl Wood and Dr. Gina Oswald for their years of dedicated service and leadership. Each has played a critical role in strengthening the organization’s partnerships and advancing its mission of stewardship and access. The Alliance is deeply grateful for their ongoing support and continued involvement in the work they helped shape.
“Dana, Darryl and Gina have been instrumental in the Alliance’s growth,” said Director of Engagement Amanda Laliberte. “Their commitment, guidance and wisdom will have lasting impacts on our mission to ensure public access and conservation. We’re grateful they are staying involved in other ways.”
