Committees and Councils

We currently work with volunteer leaders to support the organization in the following areas:

Conservation Committee
The Conservation Committee ensures that the organization’s conservation work is science-based, equitable, and minimizes harm by integrating research, diverse perspectives, and best practices. It monitors key conservation issues and advises, advocates, and supports programming to guide effective action and communication.
Chair: Kim McCormic, Vice-chair: Paul Meijer

Development Committee
The Development Committee supports the Executive Director and Development Director in meeting fundraising goals by cultivating donors, strengthening partnerships, and advancing campaigns that sustain Birds Connect Seattle’s mission. It also helps engage and equip the full Board to actively participate in development efforts.
Chair: Chris White

Equity & Justice Committee
The Equity and Justice Committee ensures that equity and justice are embedded in the organization’s daily practices, communications, and decision-making. It partners with staff to advance strategic goals that remove barriers to inclusion and apply a values-based, equity-centered lens across all initiatives.
Chair: vacant

Finance Committee:
The Finance Committee advises the Board and Executive Director on the organization’s financial health and provides oversight of financial reporting. It also supports external auditing and ensures an annual independent financial statement audit is completed.
Chair: Andres Hiltbrunner

Martin Miller Committee:
The Martin Miller Committee supports the Martin Miller Fund, which provides grants to help acquire and permanently protect wildlife habitat. The Committee oversees activities that advance long-term conservation of ecosystems for birds and other wildlife.
Chair: Melissa Mark

NextGen Council:
The NextGen Council builds community and expands access to urban birding by engaging younger, more diverse audiences in Birds Connect Seattle’s programs and advocacy. It also advances equity and justice while developing emerging leaders through meaningful service and professional growth opportunities.
Chair: Emily Sellinger

Strategic Planning Committee:
The Strategic Planning Committee helps guide Birds Connect Seattle’s long-term direction. It leads the process of setting goals and priorities, gathers input from stakeholders, analyzes trends and needs, and works with leadership to develop, monitor, and update the current strategic plan in support of the mission.
Chair: Committee will resume in the next strategic planning phase.

The Board also has two standing committees for which board membership is required.

Executive Committee:
The Executive Committee supports both the Board of Directors and the Executive Director by providing leadership, administrative oversight, and guidance on key organizational matters. It is also empowered to act on behalf of the Board and assist with grievance and personnel processes.
Chair: Anthony Floyd

Governance Committee:
The Governance Committee supports the Board by ensuring strong leadership, effective succession planning, and a healthy, engaged membership. It also oversees board evaluation and compliance with governing documents to promote accountability and continuous improvement.
Chair: Sharon Wada