IPC's work is expanding in Lancaster with the addition of a new Outreach Coordinator!

We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our team, Mike Hudson, who recently joined us as a full-time employee in Lancaster County. Mike's deep connection to the Chesapeake Bay watershed and his profound love for nature make him an incredible addition to our team.

Mike's journey as a steward for the Chesapeake Bay watershed began in his earliest years. Fond memories of fishing and exploring waterfront parks with his grandfather instilled in him a deep respect for the natural world. Growing up around the waters of the Chesapeake, he understood the significance of preserving this remarkable ecosystem from a young age.

His educational path further nurtured his passion. Mike attended Washington College on Maryland's Eastern Shore, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Biology with a concentration in Physiology and Organismal Science. During his college years, he worked at Foreman's Branch Bird Observatory, a migration bird banding station. Here, he eagerly contributed to ongoing research on local bird populations, laying the foundation for his deep connection to avian ecology.

Beyond his scientific pursuits, Mike developed a love for education. He served as an educator at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for wildlife with visitors. He also engaged in academic roles, teaching in his college's writing center and general biology labs.

Mike's journey through the world of birds has taken him on remarkable adventures -- including ones where he crossed paths with IPC's Director of Programs, Chris Eberly, before either of them started working with IPC. What a small world! Mike's passion for birding extends to bird competitions and chasing rare avian species in unexpected places. 

Currently residing in Linglestown (Dauphin County, PA) with his partner, as well as their cat and gecko, Mike spends his free time birding and capturing the beauty of local parks through his photography. His artistic talents also shine through his oil paintings and drawings, capturing the essence of Creation, which he holds so dear.

Mike's journey with IPC began right out of the gate with the facilitation of the recent Lancaster Creation Care Lunch & Learn event, where he was deeply impressed by the level of interest and commitment to environmental stewardship already present within the community. He eagerly anticipates furthering these connections and collaborating on meaningful projects with IPC, congregations, the Lancaster Task Force, and other watershed groups in the region.

We are delighted to have Mike as part of our team and look forward to the incredible contributions he will make in our collective efforts to protect and preserve the Susquehanna River and thus, those downstream within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Please join us in welcoming him as we strengthen our numbers in Lancaster and continue spreading this movement!

Want to do more with IPC and aren't in Lancaster? 

Reach out to your regional outreach coordinator and let's see how we can work together!

Bonnie Sorak Director of Outreach (Baltimore City & Co., Howard, Harford, Anne Arundel, Southern MD)	Mollie Rudow Outreach Coordinator (Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester, Caroline, Talbot Co.'s)	Sarah Redden Outreach Coordinator (Montgomery, Frederick, Prince George's Co.'s, DMV)