First woman president transformed the environmental mission The Patriot Ledger BOSTON — Environmental conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts and families across the state were saddened to learn Thursday of the untimely passing of Barbara J. Erickson, the vibrant and accomplished president and CEO of The Trustees of Reservations. Surrounded by her family, Erickson, 42, died from a rare cancer of the appendix at home on Friday, Jan. 15 after four years of treatment. She lived in Newton and Chatham. Erickson, outgoing and creative, transformed the mission of the nonprofit land conservation and historic preservation organization after she became it's first woman president in 2012. "Ambition, tenacity, and audacious thinking defined Barbara’s presidency," Peter Coffin, chair of the Trustees board of directors said in a message to members.