Birds Georgia Names New Executive Director

Adam Betuel has been named as Executive Director of Birds Georgia.

Birds Georgia has named Adam Betuel as its new Executive Director. Adam has been with the organization since 2015 and previously served as Senior Director of Programs and Director of Conservation.

As Executive Director, Adam will be responsible for enhancing Birds Georgia’s programs through organizational development, impactful advocacy, and continued growth. In addition to these strategic initiatives, he will oversee a roughly $2 million budget and ensure the long-term viability of the organization through successful fundraising, in cooperation with the board and staff, to meet the financial and strategic needs of the organization.

“Adam’s proven leadership in bird conservation and his deep commitment to Birds Georgia make him the ideal person to guide the organization into its next century,” says Marc Goncher, Chair, Board of Directors. “As we approach Birds Georgia’s 100th anniversary in 2026, Adam’s vision and dedication will help us celebrate a remarkable legacy while expanding our impact for the future of Georgia’s birds and communities.”

Adam Betuel has led Birds Georgia’s conservation efforts for more than a decade, transforming the program from a single part-time role into a statewide team of six full-time professionals. He has secured and managed more than a million dollars in grants, expanded habitat restoration work, and cultivated philanthropic partnerships to advance the organization’s mission. Adam spearheaded the development of Project Safe Flight and Lights Out Georgia, now among the strongest bird-collision prevention programs in the Southeast. Adam has represented Birds Georgia at state, regional, and national conferences, been featured in various media outlets, and led dozens of Birds Georgia travel programs to birding destinations around the world.

A trained ornithologist, Adam received his Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology and Animal Biology from The Ohio State University in 2007, and led a graduate study at Indiana State University from 2010 to 2015 on the molecular ecology and breeding behavior of the White-throated Sparrow. He just completed two terms as the second vice president of the Georgia Ornithological Society and is currently an official eBird Reviewer. He lives in Kennesaw with his wife and daughter.

“It’s an incredible honor to lead Birds Georgia at such a pivotal moment in our history,” says Adam Betuel. “I’m excited to continue growing our conservation impact, connecting more people with nature, and celebrating 100 years of protecting and enjoying Georgia’s incredible birds.”

Please join us in congratulating Adam on his new role!