On a warm July morning, I have the distinct pleasure of writing my first piece for the Song Sparrow watching the erratic song and flight of purple martins catching morning insects over Lake Erie. I appropriately found this quote from John James Audubon, “Almost every country tavern has a martin box on the upper part of its sign-board; and I have observed that the handsomer the box, the better does the inn generally prove to be.” Apparently, I chose my lodging well! In my first 60 days as director of GIAC, I have been considering the strengths and assets of the center. By far, the people are our greatest strength and asset. We have a small but mighty staff that keeps the center thriving with conservation education for school-aged children, nature programming and community engagement daily. All of this couldn’t be accomplished, however, without our incredible volunteers. In addition to staffing our reception desk, they engage with visitors, provide tours, give presentations, fill our feeders and generally keep us sane. In addition to our center volunteers, we have a committed and passionate stewardship board that provides guidance and support, particularly as we look to the future. Finally, we are privileged to partner with the leadership and staff of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks and the City of Columbus. GIAC is at a pivotal point to take what we have learned over the past six years in order to position ourselves as a significant nature and conservation destination and resource for the central Ohio community. We need to fashion a vibrant center with dynamic and evolving exhibits and displays, grow and expand on our youth and adult programming, and maximize our community partnership to have greater impact on conservation. I am honored to be the third executive director of GIAC and look forward to working with all of you on our next chapter.