CONCORD, NH – New Hampshire Audubon’s President, Mike Bartlett, has announced his retirement from the statewide conservation organization. He has served in this role since late 2008, when he agreed to come out of retirement and give up the helm of his fishing boat to help steer the organization. Next spring he will try retiring again as he turns the wheel over to a new president.
Bartlett has provided nearly eight years of successful leadership, which included guiding the organization out of a period of severe financial challenge, through its successful centennial year celebration and to the point of receiving the highest rating of four stars from Charity Navigator (a national non-profit evaluator).
David Ries, chair of the New Hampshire Audubon trustees commented recently, “We have been so lucky to have Mike leading the organization. He brought a breadth of knowledge and experience in conservation science as well as consummate organizational and financial management skills. His optimism and dedication to the staff brought about wonderful stability.”
Bartlett’s determination helped to reestablish New Hampshire Audubon as a strong voice for conservation, a respected partner at the table and a leader in educating the public about the importance of protecting wildlife and its habitat. “During my many years working with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, I held the work of New Hampshire Audubon in high regard. To be able to help strengthen the organization and bring it into its second century has been a real honor,” said Bartlett.
Today New Hampshire Audubon has much to celebrate. Under Bartlett’s unwavering and thoughtful leadership, biologists have helped restore nesting Bald Eagles to record numbers. Educators have provided children, families and adults with live animal encounters and outdoor experiences that are often transformative. Land stewardship has continued on over 8,000 acres of wildlife habitat through New Hampshire Audubon wildlife sanctuaries. Donors can contribute with confidence that their gifts will be put to good work fulfilling the organization’s mission.
New Hampshire Audubon will be celebrating the accomplishments of Mike Bartlett throughout next spring. Visit www.nhaudubon.org for updates and details.
New Hampshire Audubon trustees have formed a transition task force and contracted with a search firm to provide a smooth succession to the next president.
About New Hampshire Audubon
Founded in 1914, New Hampshire Audubon’s mission is to protect New Hampshire’s natural environment for wildlife and for people. It is an independent statewide membership organization with four nature centers throughout the state. Expert educators give programs to children, families, and adults at centers and in schools. Staff biologists and volunteers conduct bird conservation efforts such as the Peregrine Falcon restoration. New Hampshire Audubon protects thousands of acres of wildlife habitat and is a voice for sound public policy on environmental issues. For information on New Hampshire Audubon, including membership, volunteering, programs, sanctuaries, and publications, call 224-9909, or visit www.nhaudubon.org.