Pat Leonard

Media Relations

Expertise

Writing • Media Relations

Handling media relations for the Cornell Lab means fielding hundreds of media inquiries each year and connecting reporters with relevant experts. I also create and distribute news releases about Lab projects and research to commercial media as well as to other groups who may be interested in our work, such as bird clubs or bloggers who write about birds.

Before coming to the Cornell Lab in 2004, I spent more than 20 years in broadcast news, primarily television. I worked first as a reporter, then as a producer in various markets in New York State. I still enjoy telling a good story. Birds only came into focus for me after I joined the Lab and realized all I was missing! The humble American Goldfinch brought me that epiphany. Being able to travel to Alaska for a story about Snowy Owl research there—and being able to hold a Snowy Owl chick—remains one of the highlights of my life!

Education

B.A., Political Science and Communications, St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York
M.S., TV-Radio-Film, Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York

Beyond the Lab

I love to travel to new places and have been to quite a few countries including Peru, China, Australia, and New Zealand. In my younger days I trained in karate for years, reaching second-degree black belt. I love cats—but always keep them indoors.

Pat Leonard
Center Advancement
Work607-254-2137
Email pel27@cornell.edu

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Golden-cheeked Warbler by Bryan Calk/Macaulay Library