(serving since 2002)

Laurie Macdonald, a wildlife zoologist based in St Petersburg, FL, is the Director of Florida Programs for the national nonprofit conservation organization Defenders of Wildlife. Laurie had her own wildlife consulting practice for over 15 years working on endangered species and habitat protection, management, research and education. Combining science and advocacy continues to be of crucial concern to Laurie who is on the Everglades Law Center Board of Directors. Laurie also served as the national Sierra Club's Endangered Species and Habitats Chair for many years, and has volunteered in many other capacities, including a year as President of the League of Conservation Voters, Florida Chapter. During her career, Laurie has had the opportunity to work from the local through the international level. She represented Defenders of Wildlife and Sierra Club at the international conference of the parties on Biological Diversity. Laurie has a BA from the University of Oregon, and an MS from the University of South Florida.