With experience in landscape ecology, nonprofit leadership, grant acquisition, and environmental policy, Aaron Sidder brings a broad background to his new position as executive director of Audubon Community Nature Center

The Audubon Community Nature Center has hired Aaron M. Sidder, M.S., as its next executive director.

Sidder started in the new position on Monday.

Sidder brings more than 18 years of experience in landscape ecology, nonprofit leadership, grant acquisition, and environmental policy to his new role at the Audubon Community Nature Center. Most recently, he served as ecology and compliance coordinator at Bat Conservation International, where he directed multi-agency habitat restoration projects, helped to secure more than $12 million in federal and state funding, and built coalitions among government, nonprofit, and tribal partners. Sidder is also a widely published science writer, with bylines in National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and Eos, where he has written stories about climate change, conservation, Earth science, and biodiversity for global audiences.

“We are thrilled to welcome Aaron to lead Audubon into its next chapter,” said Tina Downey, board chair of Audubon Community Nature Center. “His deep expertise in ecology and conservation, combined with his proven ability to secure resources, build partnerships, and communicate science in ways that inspire, make him an exceptional fit for our mission. Aaron’s leadership will ensure that Audubon continues to be a place where people of all ages connect with nature and learn to care for the world around them.”

Sidder holds a Master’s degree in Ecology from Colorado State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of Oregon. He is a Certified Ecologist through the Ecological Society of America and has been active in advancing equity and inclusion in environmental programming throughout his career.

“I am honored to join Audubon Community Nature Center and to work alongside its dedicated staff, board, volunteers, and community supporters,” said Sidder. “The center has a remarkable legacy of environmental education and stewardship, and I look forward to building on that foundation while exploring new ways to connect people to the natural world and to one another.”

Sidder succeeds Leigh Rovegno, who served as executive director for the past seven years and has provided steady leadership during the transition.

Community members will have the opportunity to meet Sidder at upcoming events, including First Friday on Friday, Nov. 7.