Vivien Li has been promoted to the new position of president of The Boston Harbor Association (TBHA).

"We are thrilled with the growth of The Boston Harbor Association and the leadership and advocacy that Vivien has provided," said Brian Dacey, chairman, TBHA board of trustees.

Li has served as the executive director of TBHA since 1991 and has played an instrumental role in the planning of the Boston Harbor Project; in establishing of a 39-mile HarborWalk along Boston Harbor; securing funding for and helping to implement the $30 million "Back to the Beaches" program; initiating a harbor education program for urban high school students; developing a Working Port Advocacy Program promoting maritime and water-dependent jobs and uses; and initiating a "Green Boston Harbor" environmental sustainability program, according to a statement.

As president, Li will work with the association’s executive committee and board of trustees on special initiatives and projects including the upcoming "A Clean Boston Harbor: What Next" forum. She will also continue to serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization on issues relating to waterfront development and participate in the ongoing fundraising activities.

"Vivien’s selection as a prestigious Barr Foundation Fellow helped set the stage for this promotion," said Dacey. "After completing our strategic plan and reviewing the important role that TBHA has played in shaping both development and public access to the waterfront, as well as setting policy to ensure a clean Boston Harbor, the board of trustees voted to promote Vivien and create this new position to ensure that the organization has the necessary staff to continue to grow our advocacy and programming.