Maine Audubon announced Monday that Judy Camuso will serve as its next president. Bringing over 25 years of wildlife conservation experience to the role, she will be the first woman to lead the statewide environmental organization, which dates back to 1843.
“We are thrilled to welcome Judy as our new president,” Michael Catania, board chair of Maine Audubon, said in a news release. “Her deep commitment to conservation and proven leadership make her the right person to guide Maine Audubon forward into our next era.”
Camuso 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 director of the wildlife division and ultimately as the department’s commissioner. Over seven years, she expanded the department’s research projects, habitat conservation, outreach and budget. She is the first woman to lead the department, and will leave her post on April 30.
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 — the position title was recently changed to “president” by the board — on May 4 and was 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,” shared Beahm 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.