As we welcome a new year for raptor conservation, we are thrilled to share that two new faces will join us in our mission. Sherry Liguori and Brian Logsdon bring two decades(?) of experience in avian conservation and risk management, respectively, to the HawkWatch International Board of Directors.
Sherry Liguori, an Environmental Manager at Rocky Mountain Power, adds to the technical expertise on our board brought by raptor biologist Dr. Fidel Atuo. It is something that Board Chair Jill Curtis is thrilled to have as HWI is increasingly asked to make recommendations that balance the needs of raptors with the needs of humans. “As a nationally recognized leader in avian/power line issues and conservation, Sherry’s guidance will be invaluable as we pursue the best solutions for raptors and people when it comes to recommendations for the power industry,” Jill shared.
After being introduced to raptor conservation during a volunteer trip on our Following Forest Owls project, Brian Logsdon learned how important owls and other raptors are to our ecosystems and he left with a newfound passion for conservation. A Risk Advisory Consultant at Ernst & Young, Brian is excited to help HWI minimize risks to its business to ensure that raptors are around for generations to come. Executive Director Nikki Wayment is thrilled to have such important—and specific—experience. “As we continue to grow, internationally and digitally, there are increasingly larger risks to consider. Having someone like Brian guide us in how to expect and mitigate future risks is invaluable,” she shared.
As we usher in these new faces, we also must share that it is time to bid farewell to a few board members who have provided over 15 years of service combined. Barbara Polich, Darlene Batatian, and Cindy Kindred brought expertise in legal matters, environmental consulting, and fundraising, respectively, and will be deeply missed in their formal roles. “It will be hard to replace the dedication and guidance that these three brought to our Board, but we know that they will continue to be important parts of the raptor conservation community,” Jill reflected.
Attorney Barbara Polich has provided legal advice to HWI for over seven years. Barbara got involved with the organization after traveling to Veracruz, Mexico, many years ago to see the fall migration of raptors. During her time on the Board of Directors, she has advised the organization on legal issues ranging from contract negotiation to the legal considerations surrounding our growing international program. “Barbara has never been afraid to ask the tough questions that helped guide HawkWatch International to its current position in raptor conservation today,” Nikki shared.
As a professional geologist and Client Development Manager, Darlene Batatian facilitated introductions with key individuals in the natural resources and environmental consulting industries, and was instrumental in securing thousands of dollars in grant funding from the Terracon Foundation. She also successfully oversaw the organization as Board Chair through the COVID-19 pandemic. “Under Darlene’s leadership, HWI stayed strong and steady, as the organization continued to conduct field research and provide nearly all of its programming during the pandemic, albeit in different, safer ways,” Nikki reflected.
After joining the Board in December 2017, Cindy Kindred put her fundraising and marketing background to work, joining and eventually leading a committee that oversaw the revenue goals for our mission. Cindy was also passionate about connecting members of the community with opportunities to hear directly from and experience raptor conservation with our scientists. “With Cindy Kindred at the helm of our Development Committee, we knew HawkWatch would meet all of its revenue goals year after year,” Jill shared.
HawkWatch International is looking forward to sharing the impact our new Board members will have on the organization through the coming years.
This blog was written by Kirsten Elliott, HWI’s Development & Communications Director. You can learn more about Kirsten here.
