The Avian Society is powered by a team of dedicated professionals who bring expertise in ornithology, ecology, education, communications, and conservation management. Together, they guide the organization's strategy, oversee its programs, and ensure that every dollar advances the cause of bird conservation.
Dr. Eleanor Whitmore
Executive DirectorOrnithologist and conservation biologist with 25 years of experience in forest bird ecology. Formerly Director of Research at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Dr. Samuel Henderson
Field BiologistSpecialist in endangered species recovery and habitat restoration. Led the Kirtland's Warbler recovery monitoring program for 12 years.
Dr. Rachel Yamamoto
Director of Migration SciencePhysicist turned ornithologist. Her lab at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology studies the sensory mechanisms behind avian navigation.
Marcus Webb
Director of Conservation ProgramsForester and land conservation specialist. Oversees the Society's sanctuary network and sustainable forestry partnerships.
Sarah Lin
Director of EducationFormer classroom teacher and curriculum designer. Built the Society's youth education programs from the ground up, reaching 45,000 students annually.
James Patterson
Chief Communications OfficerJournalist and natural history writer. Former senior editor at National Geographic, now shaping the Society's storytelling and public outreach.