On February 21, the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation announced it has named Susan Hawthorne as its new Executive Director.

 “We are excited to have found an experienced individual such as Susan to guide the future direction of the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation. Susan possesses the right blend of qualifications to continue the Foundation’s momentum into its next phase of expansion that began under the former Executive Director, Jerry Regan, who now serves as a trustee on the Board,” said Russ Schleiden, Chairman of the Board.   

Hawthorne holds a B.S. in Organizational Leadership and a M.S. in Strategic Leadership from Mountain State University, Beckley, West Virginia. She received a M.P.S. in Community and Economic Development from Penn State University. She and her husband reside in Boalsburg.

“I am excited to join the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation, which has supported some amazing projects across the state, and right here in Centre County is building a Wildlife Center at the Tom Ridge and Julian Wetlands.  This is an exciting time for all of us at the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation,” said Hawthorne.

Hawthorne previously served as a former executive director and director of development, communications for three nonprofit organizations in Centre and Clearfield Counties.

She specializes in program development and evaluation, strategic planning, communications, fundraising and donor cultivation

In addition, Hawthorne worked as executive liaison for Blackboard/Schoolwires, Inc., an education technology firm based in State College. She also worked in the radio broadcasting field for 25 years as a news director and reporter/radio personality.

The vision of the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation is to be the leading advocate for wildlife conservation in Pennsylvania. The foundation was formed in 2004 to provide all wildlife enthusiasts with a way to show their commitment through much-needed financial support for wildlife conservation efforts and education.

 Since its inception, the Foundation has raised millions of dollars to support projects including wildlife and wetland habitat improvements, creek and lake restorations, the Seedlings for Schools program and student educational opportunities.

The Foundation’s mission connects all wildlife and nature enthusiasts to the great outdoors, including birders, hunters, anglers, students and everyone with an appreciation for nature’s treasures.

For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation website.  Click Here to buy tickets for the upcoming Pennsylvania Wildlife Gala on April 5 in State College.

[Posted: Feb. 21, 2019]

2/25/2019