Chelsea Benson
Discovery Gift Officer
As a gift officer at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, I foster relationships with members and donors who share our passion for birds, nature, and conservation. My role involves connecting with supporters to understand their interests and helping them find meaningful ways to advance the Cornell Lab’s mission through philanthropy, volunteering, and participatory science.
My journey with the Cornell Lab began in 2015 when I joined the FeederWatch and NestWatch programs as an assistant. Most recently, I helped transform the Cornell Lab’s Visitor Center, working to create an engaging space that better serves our community and inspires connection to birds and nature.
Working closely with our dedicated members, I help identify opportunities for deeper engagement with the Cornell Lab’s work, from engaging in participatory science projects to supporting crucial research and conservation initiatives. I’m privileged to serve as a bridge between our supporters’ philanthropic goals and the Cornell Lab’s mission to advance the understanding and protection of birds and biodiversity worldwide.
Education
Environment and Community, Cal Poly Humboldt, MA
Psychology, English, Allegheny College, BA
Beyond the Lab
You can find me running the beautiful trails and country roads around Ithaca, New York. I also spend my time hiking, Nordic and alpine skiing, and watching my kids play soccer.
