Fall Greetings from Huntington Vermont,

It is with mixed emotions that we share the news that David Mears, who served as Audubon Vermont’s Executive Director for the past five years, has returned to his roots in law and accepted a new position with a small law firm in Montpelier, Vermont. We will miss David but are so happy for him to be able to immerse himself in one of his greatest passions. To ensure a smooth and effective transition, Kim Guertin (Green Mountain Audubon Center Director) and Jillian Liner (Director of Conservation) will lead the organization during the transition with Jillian serving as Interim Executive Director. 

“Working with the amazing team at Audubon Vermont has been a highlight of my career,” said former Executive Director, David Mears. “I have learned so many cool facts about birds from the amazing team of conservation experts, educators and advocates at the Green Mountain Audubon Center,” he continued, “and, most importantly, I saw the powerful connections that people make to nature through learning about birds and the threats they face – the same threats we all face. Most people understand that, when we take care of birds by protecting Vermont’s ‘green hills and silver waters,’ we are taking care of our communities as well.”

Under David’s leadership, Audubon Vermont saw notable growth and tremendous success, and we are well poised to continue that upward trajectory. As we think back on David’s tenure at Audubon, we want to recognize just a few of his remarkable contributions:

• Expanded Audubon Vermont’s working lands conservation programs to engage hundreds of landowners, managers, and partners across the state, from the Lake Champlain Basin to the Connecticut River Watershed.
• Established the Youth Conservation Leadership Program and a powerful Serve Learn Earn partnership that provides young professionals with experience in the conservation field.
• Strengthened partnerships statewide and our presence at the state house in Montpelier.
• Substantially grew the Audubon Vermont budget and team of professionals.
• Grew and diversified our Advisory Board.

The entire Audubon Vermont staff and Board thank David for his leadership, mentorship, wisdom, and friendship. It was a real honor and, honestly, so much fun working with him.

We have a strong staff of talented and dedicated individuals; a highly committed and supportive Advisory Board; and hundreds of generous supporters like YOU who believe deeply in our conservation mission. Together we are carrying on Audubon’s mission and will become an even stronger and effective voice for conservation in Vermont and beyond.