Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson

Director

Member Portal
Merrille Malwitz-Jipson Kayak River Paddle

Merrillee calls home the banks of the Santa Fe River in North Central Florida. Married with two children, she and her husband created Rum 138, a family-run business which has become known as a landmark destination. Their business is a fine art gallery with regional artists depicting the springs and rivers in North Florida, a Florida-based tourism in canoe/kayak rental, and a local food restaurant.

During her term as OSFR president Merrillee participated as a consultant on writing new curricula for the water studies program at Florida Gate College, gave lectures in secondary schools,and appeared on NPR to explain OSFR’s mission.

Merrillee worked for a time with National Sierra Club – Florida as a campaign organizer working with citizens to become part of the process to be a voice for our natural resources. She has worked directly on stopping Sabal Trail natural gas transmission pipeline, fertilizer and septic issues that impact our waterways, and banning fracking in our state.

Merrillee’s peace of mind is found in artistic expression and movements through direct action, taking great care of area cultural values along the way. She earned an A.A. ’85, at USF in Tampa and a B.F.A. ’91, at Ringling College of Art in Sarasota.

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