Judy Camuso, the departing commissioner of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, has been tapped to serve as Maine Audubon’s next president. She will become the first woman to lead the statewide environmental organization since it was formed in 1843.
“We are thrilled to welcome Judy as our new president,” Michael Catania, board chair of Maine Audubon, said in a news release Monday. “Her deep commitment to conservation and proven leadership make her the right person to guide Maine Audubon forward into our next era.”
Camuso, who is leaving state government at the end of April, began her wildlife career at Maine Audubon nearly three decades ago, working as a seasonal biologist, staff naturalist and then the director of Gilsland Farm, the nonprofit’s environmental education center and headquarters in Falmouth.
“Maine Audubon has always possessed a special place in my heart since I began my career there,” said Camuso in the release.
In 2007, Camuso went to work at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, where she ascended from assistant regional biologist to special projects coordinator, then becoming director of the wildlife division and ultimately the commissioner under Gov. Janet Mills. Over seven years leading the department, she expanded its research projects, habitat conservation, outreach and budget. She is the first woman to lead the department, and will leave her post on April 30.
“I congratulate my friend Judy Camuso on her selection as the next president of Maine Audubon. Judy has long been a leader in protecting Maine’s wildlife and natural resources, as well as getting more people outside and enjoying the Maine outdoors,” Mills said in a statement. “I am pleased that she will continue that important work in service to Maine people.”
Camuso has also served in several national conservation roles, including as vice chair of the North American Wetlands Conservation Council and president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.
“I’m looking forward to leading Maine Audubon to new levels as the premier conservation organization in the state, and beyond. I truly believe people protect what they love, and I want more people to love the wildlife and natural resources of the state,” said Camuso.
Maine Audubon’s current executive director, Andy Beahm, has led the organization since 2017 and will retire in May. Camuso will assume the role of president — the title was recently changed by the board — on May 4 and is not available for an interview until then.
“Over the last decade, we have greatly expanded the reach and relevance of our education, conservation, advocacy and properties work. I’m beyond thrilled that Judy will succeed me and am supremely confident that she can take Maine Audubon to even higher levels of impact,” Beahm said in the release.
Maine Audubon is the oldest and largest conservation organization based in Maine, according to the nonprofit. With eight public centers and sanctuaries across the state and seven chapters, it reports having over 30,000 supporters and connecting with over 250,000 people each year.
Staff Writer Drew Johnson contributed to this story.
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