Each year, Wake Audubon recognizes individuals whose contributions exemplify our mission to inspire the appreciation and protection of birds, wildlife, and the natural world. We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Paulette Van de Zande Volunteer Award and the John Connors Conservation and Environmental Education Award — two dedicated members whose work has left a lasting mark on our community.

🕊️ Paulette Van de Zande Volunteer Award

Honoring: Diane Hardy

The Paulette Van de Zande Volunteer Award is given to a volunteer who fosters fellowship, shares their passion for nature,

and promotes responsible environmental stewardship. This year’s recipient, Diane Hardy, has been an integral part of Wake Audubon since the 1980s.

Diane began her long-standing service by managing and staffing our annual Bird Seed Sale fundraiser — then our primary source of chapter funding. Through the 1990s and into 2010, she served on the Wake Audubon Board, bringing her accounting expertise to the role of Chapter Treasurer. Known for her precision and dedication, Diane regularly presented the board with detailed monthly financials that helped guide our decision-making.

Diane also co-developed the highly successful Bids for the Birds fundraising auction, helped with hospitality at chapter meetings and Christmas Bird Count socials, and has been a supportive companion to many of our longtime members. She’s a familiar face at Yates Mill Pond during the Annual Christmas Bird Count – often accompanied by a great sense of humor. As she recalls of early CBC outings: “The first three times I went on the Christmas Bird Count with John Connors, someone fell into a hole…” (We’ll spare you the punchline — but trust us, it’s memorable!)

Diane’s humility, generosity, and sense of humor have brightened the Wake Audubon community for decades, and we are thrilled to honor her with this award.

🌿 John Connors Conservation and Environmental Education Award

Honoring: Phil Doerr

The John Connors Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to conservation and environmental education. This year’s honoree, Phil Doerr, has gone above and beyond to foster inclusive and impactful environmental engagement.

Phil helped catalyze our partnership with Field Inclusive, a nonprofit working to increase access and representation in environmental fields. His leadership was instrumental in launching our Beginning Birding Program, from securing resources to developing engaging programming that welcomes new and diverse birders.

Phil has also made important contributions at Yates Mill County Park, installing and monitoring Purple Martin nesting gourds, and guiding the Leopold Wildlife Club in maintaining Wood Duck nest boxes. His influence extends to Lincoln Heights Elementary School, where he helped create a native plant garden that offers students hands-on experience with pollinators and native ecosystems.

Through his work, Phil exemplifies what it means to be a conservation leader, educator, and advocate for a more inclusive environmental future.

Thank you Phil and Diane for the many years of service you given to Wake Audubon and to make our community a better place for birds!