ST. PAUL, MINN (May 13, 2019) – Audubon announced today that Rob Schultz will be the next Vice President and Executive Director for Audubon Minnesota and the Upper Mississippi Flyway. Schultz has worked in the nonprofit sector for more than 25 years, most recently serving as Executive Director of the International Wolf Center.
“We are thrilled Rob is joining our team,” said Deborah Reynolds, Audubon Minnesota’s Board Chair. “Rob’s leadership experience and familiarity with environmental conservation makes him a great fit for our growing organization. His valuable perspective will guide our current and future programs in Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri.”
Schultz spent the last seven years leading the International Wolf Center, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wild lands and the human role in their future. During his tenure, Rob led a dedicated team of staff and volunteers that increased admissions at their interpretive center in northern Minnesota; launched a new outreach program, Wolves at our Door, that has reached more than 55,000 students; and most-recently, led the development of a $1 million new exhibit that will open at the center soon.
Rob has served in director roles of other leading nonprofits such as the YMCA, the Boy Scouts of America, and the Saint Paul Police Foundation. He is an Eagle Scout and enjoys photography, travel, and spending time outdoors.
“I am very excited to be joining Audubon at this critical time,” said Schultz. “We have a tremendous amount of work to do in addressing important environmental issues that are affecting birds and our planet. Audubon is a powerful organization that is using science to guide its conservation strategy and on-the-ground work that is happening in so many communities across America.”
Schultz is a Parks & Recreation graduate of Minnesota State University Mankato, and at the age of 27, he was appointed Executive Director of the International Peace Garden, an affiliated area of the National Park Service on the US-Canadian border. While at the Peace Garden, Schultz was successful in growing the park’s visitation making it North Dakota’s second-largest tourism destination.
Rob is working on a master’s degree in Biology during his free time through Miami University. Rob and his husband, Andrew, live north of Minneapolis in Fridley with their golden retriever, Rusty.
Schultz will begin his new role with Audubon Minnesota on May 20.
Audubon Minnesota was established in 1979 and throughout its history, Audubon’s committed members have contributed to the rich conservation legacy in Minnesota. The organization and its supporters have worked to create bird-friendly communities, protect water for birds and people, and create a healthy climate. Schultz’s direction will ensure Audubon Minnesota continues to leave a positive conservation legacy for future generations.
To learn more about Audubon Minnesota, visit mn.audubon.org or email audubonminnesota@audubon.org.
