Five years ago, I could recognize approximately three species of birds, had never heard of Merlin or eBird, and had no idea that buried deep inside me was a "bird nerd".  I did, however, have a background in fundraising and non-profit development, mostly in the realm of health issues and visual art, so based on that, I joined RPBO as Development Director.  I am very grateful that I did. The leadership and volunteers of RPBO are quite simply the finest people I have ever worked with, dedicated to doing whatever can be done to address the threats birds currently face. I completed a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Entrepreneurship, and appreciate working with an organization that encourages creative and entrepreneurial thinking. I spend as much time as possible outside, hiking, walking my two dogs, and introducing my tiny grandson to the wonders of gardening.  I'm currently completing a Master's Degree in Writing and New Media, and grateful for the opportunity to be exposed to so many new ideas and ways of communicating. Becoming an active bird-lover has enriched my life in many ways; I look forward to sharing this experience with as many people as possible.