Douglas Varley, Recognized Leader in Not-for-profit Legal issues, Joins Audubon Board

Doug Varley, member of the law firm Caplin & Drysdale, has been named to board of directors of the National Audubon Society. With a practice focused on not-for-profit organizations and foundations, Varley brings extensive experience in a wide range of philanthropic issues to Audubon. Varley is the seventh new member of Audubon’s board this year.

“Doug’s deep understanding of the legal and organizational complexities of the NGO world will be invaluable as Audubon completes and implements its new strategic plan,” said Holt Thrasher, board chair and founder and manager of Mooreland Partners.

Varley’s practice is based in Washington, DC, where he advises national organizations on their efforts to influence federal policy.  He focuses principally on providing tax and regulatory advice to nonprofits, in particular environmental organizations.  He has also worked on several of the largest conservation transactions in North America and teaches at the Georgetown University School of Law. 

 “Doug brings a unique combination of conservation commitment and astute legal perspective to Audubon’s work,” said David Yarnold, Audubon President & CEO.  

Varley joins other new additions Joe Ellis, 35-year Wall Street veteran, conservationist and author; Jon Anda, founder and leader of UBS Securities Environmental Markets Group; leading climate scientist Terry Root, Ph.D; and regional directors Pennsylvania education expert Leigh Altadonna and Joy Hester, Houston conservation leader and retired real estate attorney. In addition, renowned ornithologist Frank Gill, Ph. D returned to Audubon’s board this year following a stint as interim CEO.