Alaska Raptor Center announces departure of executive director Jennifer Cross
SITKA, Alaska —(March 4, 2024)— The Alaska Raptor Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation, education and conservation of wild birds, has announced the departure of executive director, Jennifer Cross, who will be stepping down after seven years of leadership. The Center’s board of directors is set to begin a nationwide, comprehensive search for her successor.
“We are grateful to Jennifer for all her contributions,” remarked Roger Hames, board chair. “Jen built and developed a cohesive core team around her to run the Center and carry out its mission. Jen’s overall impact will be long standing. She was the right person who came along at the right time and place for us.”
Cross has been instrumental in leading the Center since 2017, contributing to its growth and stability. Under her leadership, she secured more than $3 million for the Center’s infrastructure projects, establishing a crucial reserve fund for emergencies and guiding the organization through the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic without diminishing avian rescue and rehabilitation or staff stability. Additionally, her efforts elevated the Center’s national profile through features across media, including National Geographic Wild’s “Alaska Animal Rescue.”
“In Jen’s time running the Center, she has moved us to a place of financial stability,” said Bill Pedlar, secretary-treasurer of the Center’s board. “She worked diligently with donors and customers to ensure the Center was on solid financial ground while staying true to our mission.”
Cross expressed her gratitude and optimism for the Center’s continued success, sharing “Leading the Alaska Raptor Center has been an immense honor. I am proud of what we have achieved together and leave knowing the Center is poised for even greater accomplishments.”
Cross will continue to lead the Center until her departure on March 8, before transitioning to her new role as the development lead for Launch Alaska.
As the Center embarks on this transition, it remains dedicated to its mission of promoting and enhancing the welfare of avian species through its continued commitment to rehabilitation, education and research. For more information about the Alaska Raptor Center and its programs, please visit the Center’s website.
ABOUT THE ALASKA RAPTOR CENTER
Located in Sitka, Alaska, the Alaska Raptor Center is dedicated to the care and conservation of wild birds. Each year, around 200 injured birds receive treatment at the Center, with the goal of releasing rehabilitated individuals back into the wild. For birds unable to return to their natural habitats, the Center offers a permanent home, where they play a crucial role in educational initiatives, helping to teach thousands of visitors annually about the importance of raptors and conservation. For more information, please visit the Center’s website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.