Audubon Minnesota Appoints Matthew Anderson as Executive Director

National Audubon Society today announced the appointment of Matthew Anderson as Vice President and Executive Director of Audubon Minnesota. With a life-long commitment to conservation and the outdoors, Anderson will advance the Audubon mission to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife, and their habitats.

Anderson brings a wealth of experience in leading national organizations and engaging diverse audiences for conservation.Prior to joining Audubon, Anderson served as Executive Director of the National Religious Partnership for the Environment, one of the oldest and largest faith-based environmental groups in the country.Over the past decade, Anderson worked for a number of leading faith-based environmental organizations. Anderson brings a strong conservation ethic and passion for Audubon’s work. He has served on a variety of boards, including as Board of Directors secretary for Appalachian Voices and as a representative to the Green Group, a council of national conservation CEOs. 

In addition to leading the state organization, he will integrate the work of Audubon Minnesota into the overall strategies and programs of the Mississippi Flyway.  The flyway is a key migratory pathway and system of important, interdependent bird habitats that spans from northernmost regions to Patagonia.

“It is an exciting time for Minnesota and the region as we address bird conservation challenges and opportunities,” said Chris Canfield, vice president of National Audubon Society’s Gulf Coast and Mississippi Flyway region. “With the vision and talent of Matthew Anderson at the helm, and with the support of its chapters and members, Audubon Minnesota will achieve new levels of conservation success in the region.”

Anderson is completing an M.A. in Advocacy and Political Leadership from the University of Minnesota–Duluth and holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Dartmouth College. He resides in St. Paul with wife and two daughters.

“I’m thrilled to join Audubon Minnesota. Throughout its 35 year history, Audubon Minnesota, its chapters, and its committed members have contributed to the rich conservation legacy of Minnesota,” Anderson said. “Audubon Minnesota, our partners and tens of thousands of bird lovers and conservationists throughout the state will push our efforts to new heights through our passion for birding, citizen science and sound conservation policy.”