Article originally appeared in The Record.

By Lauren Halligan | August 24, 2014

Troy, NY - Elizabeth Burns: The new development and communications associate for Audubon New York, which now has a place in the Collar City in the historic Frear building. She's an alum of SUNY Albany, has worked for Corning Place Communications and has followed her passion to come work for Audubon New York.

1. How did you become the newest Audubon New York employee?

I graduated from SUNY Albany in May with a degree in English and communications. A valuable internship experience with Corning Place Communications gave me the professional experience I needed for my post-grad job hunt. When I came across the development and communications position available at Audubon New York, I was thrilled to have found something that matched both my professional goals and my love for wildlife and the outdoors.

2. What will your duties entail at the new job?

As the new development and communications associate for Audubon New York, I will raise awareness for the organizational mission and new strategic plan. To support its conservation efforts, Audubon New York hosts several annual benefits throughout the state and I will be responsible for increasing participation and engagement at these events through print and electronic messaging.

3. What are you most looking forward to about working in Troy?

As a longtime resident of the Capital Region, I can say that Troy is one place I have yet to really explore. Audubon New York recently relocated its state headquarters to the Frear Building, a historic and beautiful building in the heart of downtown Troy. I am excited to be working in one of the Capital Region's fastest-growing areas for business and commerce.

4. What are some of your goals with Audubon New York?

This is a very important and exciting time for Audubon New York and I am thrilled for the opportunity to play a role in achieving some of the new organizational strategic goals. I hope that by further integrating the development and communications efforts, we can diversify our statewide network and inspire individuals, companies and other partners to become even more involved in our mission.

5. What's one major thing everyone should know about Audubon New York?

All of Audubon New York's efforts truly benefit the greater good and sound science is the foundation of all our work. While our priority is protecting and restoring habitats for the benefit of birds, our work positively impacts all other species, including humans and the environment as a whole.

-- Lauren Halligan