Dear friends of Audubon Connecticut,

I am honored to introduce myself as the new Senior Center Manager of the beloved Bent of the River Audubon Center. After four incredible years serving as the Advocacy Chair for Menunkatuck Audubon Society in coastal Connecticut, I am thrilled to continue my work with the Audubon flock in this capacity.

Bent of the River is a very special place to me personally. I have spent much time there over the past 10 years learning the trails, witnessing bird-banding, and learning from long-time staff including Kate and Glen. Bent of the River holds a very, very special spot in my heart, mind, and imagination.

I especially look forward to this role because of the opportunity to continue working with the next generation of conservationists. At New Haven’s UrbanScapes Native Plant Nursery, a joint project between Menunkatuck Audubon Society and the Community Placemaking and Engagement Network, I have been working with youth from underserved neighborhoods to grow and sell native plants. I foresee amazing opportunities there for future collaborations with the Bent!

I have also advocated at the state and federal levels as a member of the CT Forage Fish Conservation Act Field Team, set up a network of fishing line recycling bins (26 so far!), and served as a bird survey leader for a marsh migration project in Guilford.

I am committed to professional cultures of collaboration, kindness, mutual respect, diversity, inclusion, equity, appreciation, encouragement, and initiative, and to making the Bent’s 700 acres as a welcoming space for all.

I look forward to making great strides in outreach and conservation together,
Robin Ladouceur