Joyce Leiz is Selected as Connecticut Audubon Society’s Executive Director
Joyce Leiz has been appointed as executive director of the Connecticut Audubon Society. Photo by Tomas Koeck.
January 13, 2024 — We are happy to announce that the Connecticut Audubon Society’s Board of Directors has selected Joyce Leiz as executive director, to lead the organization as it continues its mission of conserving the state’s birds, other wildlife and their habitats.
Joyce has served as interim executive director since June 2023 and has become known throughout the state from her participation in programs, meetings, webinars, and other Connecticut Audubon activities.
She joined the organization in 2018 as development director, overseeing fundraising and membership, and also served as chief operating officer.
During her time here she has drawn on her experience in conservation, nonprofit administration, fundraising, finance, grants administration and government relations.
In announcing the decision, Board Chair Pamela Fraser said, “Joyce has been focused on strengthening the organization’s financial position and administration to make sure we accomplish our mission.
“From the big picture to the small details, Joyce is leading us toward our vision of a future where all can share and experience the joys of nature and understand the importance of environmental preservation.
“She is the right leader to guide our members, our staff and our boards as we continue to provide both first-rate local conservation programs and education, and conservation and advocacy work of regional and statewide importance.”
Joyce said she was honored that the Board has asked her to lead “this esteemed organization as it continues to strengthen partnerships and have a positive impact on Connecticut’s environment.
“We have expanded greatly over the past several years thanks to the support of our members and board, and to the hard work of our staff,” she said. “I look forward to working with you all to protect our birds, restore our habitats, improve legislative protections, and educate the next generation of conservation leaders.”
The Connecticut Audubon Society was founded in 1898 by a group of women in the town of Fairfield led by Mabel Osgood Wright. In has grown into a statewide organization with centers and programs in Fairfield, Milford, Old Lyme, Essex, Sherman, Pomfret, the Greater Hartford area, and Hampton.
Connecticut Audubon owns and manages 22 nature sanctuaries covering 3,400 acres in a dozen communities. Its award-winning Science in Nature education program reaches 14,000 school children a year from more than 25 school districts. Its advocacy program in Hartford has for years been effectively collaborating with conservation partners to pass more effective environmental laws in the state Capitol.
