Join Us in Welcoming Our New Executive Director!

Tucson, AZ December 13, 2021—Tucson Audubon Society is excited to announce that Michael McDonald will serve as its next Executive Director. The announcement is the culmination of a months-long national search. 

Michael, well known in the Tucson community, has most recently served seven years as CEO of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. He previously led Habitat for Humanity, Native Seeds/SEARCH, and worked with The Nature Conservancy. 

His nonprofit career spans 25 years of deep commitment to protecting the environment, connecting people, building community and preserving what makes Tucson and the Sonoran Desert unique. 

As Executive Director, McDonald will be the foremost ambassador for Tucson Audubon’s exceptional mission to “inspire people to enjoy and protect birds through recreation, education, conservation, and restoration of the environment upon which we all depend.” 

“As I join Tucson Audubon,” said Michael, “I'm mindful of all those who've come before who have steadfastly done their part to conserve and protect our extraordinary birds and habitats in this bioculturally diverse borderlands.” 

McDonald continued, “I'm also mindful of all those who we have yet to fully partner with, including our region's BIPOC communities and all our next generation leaders—including my granddaughters—who are counting upon us to do our utmost before too much is irreparably lost. For the sake of restorative environmental justice, now is the time for our collective boldness, innovation, resolve and solidarity—with one another and with our natural ecosystems. Our birds, our children, and the future of this extraordinary place will thank us for doing our part today.” 

“Michael brings unparalleled skills and passion to this job. We’re thrilled for what this means for the organization and what we will accomplish”, said Mary Walker, president of the Tucson Audubon Society board of directors. 

Patti Caldwell, interim Executive Director of Tucson Audubon: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael on important community issues. He is an exceptional leader.”