New Audubon Society Board Chair is from Wellesley

The Mass. Audubon Society elected a new chair for its Board of Directors, a Wellesley resident.

Jared Chase of Wellesley, 57, originally joined the Board in 1998, according to an Audubon press release. Today, he shares his 35 years of experience in global finance, as well his understanding of work with non-profit organizations.

“I’m proud of Mass Audubon’s long-standing commitment to biodiversity, land protection, and other important goals that enhance our collective quality of life,” Chase said. “I’m also humbled by the organization’s faith in me and excited about its growing role in the conservation future of the Commonwealth.” 

He succeeds the current Chair, Jonathan Panek, whose term expires this year. Chase served as vice-chair under Panek since 2006.

The following was submitted by Mass Audubon: 

Mass. Audubon Elects a New Chair of Board of Directors

Wellesley Resident Jared Chase Combines Leadership, Experience, and Commitment 

Mass Audubon, a premier voice for conservation in Massachusetts and New England, has elected Jared Chase of Wellesley as Chair of its Board of Directors.

Chase brings 35 years’ experience in global finance and investment management to the position, and that background will help ensure the organization remains strong in its mission to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature.

Since joining the board in 1998, Chase has contributed his expertise to multiple committees, and has developed a comprehensive understanding of the renowned conservation nonprofit. Mass Audubon operates 53 wildlife sanctuaries across the state, from Cape Cod to the Berkshires, as well as an overnight camp in Rindge, New Hampshire.

He had served as Vice Chair since 2006 before succeeding Jonathan Panek, whose term as Chair ended in 2012. Chase supports Mass Audubon’s growing involvement in climate change and renewable energy issues, as a natural outgrowth of its ongoing mission to promote birdlife and biodiversity, protect land and wildlife habitats, and support nature-based education.

The new Board Chair, 57, was drawn to the natural world as a youth by his father’s efforts to restore the Farmington River in Connecticut, which eventually achieved federal Wild and Scenic status. Such experiences as a young person can be formative and long lasting, Chase noted. 

“So I believe it’s really important to get to kids early and get them invested in the outdoors,” he added.

“I’m proud of Mass Audubon’s long-standing commitment to biodiversity, land protection, and other important goals that enhance our collective quality of life,” Chase said. “I’m also humbled by the organization’s faith in me and excited about its growing role in the conservation future of the Commonwealth.” 

Chase also serves on the New England Aquarium Board of Overseers and on the York (ME) Land Trust Board of Directors.

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Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for 35,000 acres of conservation land, provide school, camp, and other educational programs for 225,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels. Founded in 1896 by two inspirational women who were committed to the protection of birds, Mass Audubon has grown to become a powerful force for conservation in New England. Today we are respected for our sound science, successful advocacy, and innovative approaches to connecting people and nature. Each year, our statewide network of wildlife sanctuaries welcomes nearly half a million visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds and serves as the base for our work. To support these important efforts, call 800-AUDUBON (800-283-8266) or visit www.massaudubon.org