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Dear friends of ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Connecticut,

I am honored to introduce myself as the new Senior Center Manager of the beloved Bent of the River ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Center. After four incredible years serving as the Advocacy Chair for Menunkatuck ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Society in coastal Connecticut, I am thrilled to continue my work with the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ flock in this capacity.

Bent of the River is a very special place to me personally. I have spent much time there over the past 10 years learning the trails, witnessing bird-banding, and learning from long-time staff including Kate and Glen. Bent of the River holds a very, very special spot in my heart, mind, and imagination.

I especially look forward to this role because of the opportunity to continue working with the next generation of conservationists. At New Haven’s UrbanScapes Native Plant Nursery, a joint project between Menunkatuck ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Society and the Community Placemaking and Engagement Network, I have been working with youth from underserved neighborhoods to grow and sell native plants. I foresee amazing opportunities there for future collaborations with the Bent!

I have also advocated at the state and federal levels as a member of the CT Forage Fish Conservation Act Field Team, set up a network of fishing line recycling bins (26 so far!), and served as a bird survey leader for a marsh migration project in Guilford.

I am committed to professional cultures of collaboration, kindness, mutual respect, diversity, inclusion, equity, appreciation, encouragement, and initiative, and to making the Bent’s 700 acres as a welcoming space for all.

I look forward to making great strides in outreach and conservation together,
Robin Ladouceur