Thom Benedict 

Originally from southern California, Thom Benedict earned a degree in theatre arts from California State University, Chico, and has several years experience as a professional stage manager. Thom returned to school in 1996 to study biological science and natural history, motivated by a commitment to be "part of the solution."

After completing his studies, he worked on the revegetation crew at Grand Canyon National Park. He was actively involved in school and volunteer-outreach programs, and spent weekends at the HWI observation sites in the park. From that experience and participation in a HWI raptor-identification course, Thom became hooked on hawks. He then worked two seasons hacking Aplomado Falcons for The Peregrine Fund and served as an education intern for HWI in Corpus Christi and Albuquerque. After that, he continued as a HWI volunteer, training other volunteers in raptor handling and giving presentations in Albuquerque. He was then recruited to serve as HWI's Education Director in 2004 and has been serving as Executive Director since May 2005.

Thom is pleased to combine his diverse background and interests into his work, inspiring others to appreciate the marvels of raptors. Other interests include bicycling, hiking, learning to play the flute, and cooking.