Background
William “Bill” Heck was nominated by the Columbus Audubon Chapter to receive the Great Egret Award from the National Audubon Society. This award goes to individuals who have made significant long-term contributions to Audubon and conservation in pursuit of the Audubon Mission which is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity.
Individuals who have been in the “trenches” for 20 years or more working for the Audubon mission, either as a volunteer or staff member are considered for this award. This individual has made significant contributions at one or more levels within the local Chapter, center, state, regional and/or national level.
Award Citation
William (Bill) Heck of Columbus, Ohio currently is the regional director for National Audubon Society’s Mississippi-North Region. He is a retired information technology manager. Bill has served as a board member and President of Audubon Miami Valley, member of the Audubon Ohio Advisory Board and the Grange Insurance Audubon Center Advisory Board, and as board member, Vice President, and President of Columbus Audubon. Other nonprofit service includes terms as board member and treasurer of the Three Valley Conservation Trust (a land trust in SW Ohio) and board member and treasurer of the Black Swamp Bird Observatory.
The Great Egret Award Inscription: In grateful recognition of your longtime commitment and dedication to Columbus Audubon as a steadfast volunteer and past board member. With sincerest gratitude for all that you have done for the well-being of birds, other wildlife and their habitats. Your outstanding service is greatly appreciated.