CONTACT:

Staci Stevens, Communications and Policy Manager, cell: 202-294-3101, sstevens@audubon.org

Audubon New Mexico, the state office of the National Audubon Society, is happy to announce the hire of their new Executive Director, Julie Weinstein. Weinstein, who recently took the helm after a competitive national search, will provide leadership for state-level conservation initiatives and the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary.

Julie has worked in the field of nonprofit program and fund development for more than 15 years, guiding organizations in transformational growth and sustainability efforts to advance the rights of people, protect the planet and promote the creative arts.

"We are excited by the energetic leadership, thoughtful direction and conservation commitment that Julie brings to Audubon New Mexico," said Steve Thompson, Chair of the Board of Directors.

Prior to joining Audubon, she served as director of philanthropy for the ACLU, first in New Mexico and then for the Southern California affiliate. Julie was responsible for historic financial and structural growth at both offices and played a role in numerous, high-profile social justice campaigns, (including: New Mexico and federal recognition of marriage; education equity for schoolchildren; the rights of immigrants; and the protection of mentally ill incarcerated men and women), positively affecting the lives of millions of people.

Julie fell in love with the landscape, people and culture of New Mexico when she moved to Santa Fe in 1996. For nearly two decades, Julie has enjoyed hiking, fishing, camping and exploring our land's rich history and beauty. 

“I couldn’t be happier to have my family back in New Mexico,” said Weinstein. “In my new role I look forward to connecting with our exceptional network of scientists, educators, decision makers and concerned citizens throughout the state to expand the reach of Audubon’s conservation and education programs to protect our state’s unique habitats and rich biodiversity.”

Over the next several months Audubon expects to begin several ambitious projects, including:

• renewed conservation initiatives to address the effects of climate change on natural ecosystems with a focus on New Mexico rivers and at-risk avian species,

• new community education and summer camp programing, and

• expansion of facilities at the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary.