Houston, TX – Houston Audubon announces the appointment of Jed Aplaca as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective December 30, 2024. This news comes after a four-month-long search conducted by a President and CEO Search Committee consisting of 8 board members and volunteers. A professional Executive Search Firm, Sorrell, was hired to recruit the most qualified candidate to guide the organization through its 2024-2034 strategic framework.
Jed Aplaca brings extensive experience and a proven track record of success to Houston Audubon. His background in conservation biology and botany aligns perfectly with the organization’s critical land management efforts, particularly in native plant restoration. Jed’s history of successful partnerships with local organizations will bolster Houston Audubon’s community outreach and education programs, both in the community and at our sanctuaries.
“I’m thrilled to bring my expertise, leadership, and passion to Houston Audubon as its President and CEO. I look forward to advancing the organization’s mission, fostering conservation initiatives, and inspiring communities to connect with nature,” said Jed Aplaca.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jed as our new CEO. His deep-rooted passion for conservation and extensive experience in environmental stewardship make him the perfect leader to guide our organization into the future. We are confident that his vision and expertise will help us achieve our mission of protecting birds and wildlife,” said Greg Whittaker, Board Chair.
Jed Aplaca has dedicated his career to the preservation and stewardship of natural resources, driven by a lifelong passion for the environment. Raised in Hawaii, Jed spent his formative years immersed in the beauty of the ocean and mountains, fostering a deep appreciation for nature. Jed earned a B.S. in Conservation Biology at Brigham Young University, and a Master’s degree in Biology at Texas State University-San Marcos, publishing a thesis titled The Non-Native Flora of Texas.
As the first Natural Resources Manager at the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Jed developed and implemented programs to protect and enhance the city’s green spaces. Most recently, Jed served as Director of Parks and Recreation at the City of Pasadena. Under his leadership, the department expanded its programming, strengthened community partnerships, and enhanced recreational opportunities for residents.
About Houston Audubon
Houston Audubon is a financially independent 501(c)(3) charitable conservation, education, and advocacy organization that focuses on protecting the natural environment for birds and people. Established in 1969 as an autonomous, self-supporting chapter of the National Audubon Society, Houston Audubon's mission is to advance the conservation of birds and their habitats in the Greater Houston Gulf Coast region. This is accomplished through acquiring and maintaining critical habitat as bird sanctuaries, providing education programs and nature experiences, and advocating policy and management actions in support of the mission. Houston Audubon owns and manages 17 nature sanctuaries encompassing 4,112 acres across the Greater Houston and Galveston regions and became an Accredited Land Trust in 2017.
Media Contact:
Zineera Seth Chong
Communications and Marketing Director
zseth@houstonaudubon.org
(713) 932-1639 ext. 106
