Member profile: Patsy McCook

October 18 – The area around the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center first captivated Patsy McCook with its Ospreys, vistas, and the seeming impossibility of unspoiled land so close to I-95. But as a member of the center’s regional board since its early days some five years ago, she’s found the center’s organizational side just as fascinating.

Serving as the board’s secretary was a natural fit for the retired editor, who relishes her front-row seat to the center’s transformation from informal network of volunteers to an established enterprise.

“One of the major things is just learning. Learning about the intricate operations of a really professional nonprofit organization . . . and of course our incredible education program. I think I’ve learned as much as I’ve contributed.

“The value of working locally, we’re seeing that played out in all issues. There are times when I feel despair about what’s going on, particularly environmentally, out of Washington. And then I think, here’s something that could make a difference. Here’s something constructive. To see how far we’ve come in just a few years and to realize that we’re really solid and we are are growing—I think we are making difference.

“It makes the estuary more and more precious because I realize how many people are devoting themselves to it. It’s a real entity, it’s not just a place that I’ve walked through and hiked in and watched the Ospreys in. Being on the board helped me appreciate the value of the estuary even more.

“I feel as though I’ve received an infinitely greater amount than I’ve given. I’ve worked and I love working. But what I’ve gotten in return is just immense.”

How she first became involved in Connecticut Audubon through the estuary:
“My major experience was walking and observing the ospreys. Just staying there and looking at everything there is and the vistas and the marshes and the birds the fact that it’s completely undeveloped and here it is not far from I-95. I don’t think I’d ever been in a place like this so close to ‘civilization.’ The proximity is what just bowled me over.”

Volunteering as a source of learning:
“That’s a big reason why I joined the board. I’m still young enough to be learning and I think Audubon has been an incredible opportunity. There are things that I never dreamed of and questions to ask. I’m learning from the other board members and many volunteers and I’m learning from them and how they do things. It’s just snowballing.

“I respect all the board members and they each bring different talents. Some are really skilled and fundraising and [there are] a couple of budget people and bylaws and education and science—I’m impressed with that and the fact that we work well together.”

Interview by Liz Acas.