Staff Report / July 12, 2026
BRANCHPORT – A tireless architect of regional preservation has been thrust into the spotlight for her dedication to keeping the history and ecology of the Finger Lakes alive. Natalie Payne, the longtime Executive Director of the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum, has officially been named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 Women of Distinction Award. Presented by the Professional Women of the Finger Lakes during their annual awards and scholarship dinner on June 30, the honor specifically celebrates Payne’s exceptional leadership, far-reaching regional impact, and outstanding career milestones in the field of Professional Achievement.
Payne’s connection to the Branchport institution runs deep, having spent over 15 years guiding its evolution from an ambitious foundational idea in 2008 into a thriving regional destination. Backed by a bachelor’s degree in history from St. John Fisher College, a master’s degree in nonprofit leadership from Keuka College, and formative early career experience at Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion, she has been instrumental in crafting the museum’s immersive approach to place-based storytelling. Under her watchful guidance, the museum has successfully transformed its 30-acre campus into a vibrant environmental classroom, boasting a community paddle launch, dynamic family nature play spaces, and meticulously restored local wetlands.
The annual gala serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role women play in elevating the community through dedicated service, leadership, and professional excellence. The evening’s festivities put a spotlight on the outstanding contributions of local leaders while simultaneously investing heavily in the next generation of changemakers
