Stephanie Herron

I am a seasoned nonprofit leader with three decades of executive experience driving transformational growth in fundraising, marketing, and strategic innovation across the education, healthcare, and research sectors. As Senior Director of Advancement at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, I lead integrated teams responsible for marketing, communications, fundraising, membership, and gift planning—advancing the Lab’s mission to create a world where birds, nature, and people thrive.

Before joining the Cornell Lab, I held pivotal leadership roles at nationally recognized organizations. I served as Chief Development and Marketing Officer for Stand Up To Cancer, Chief Development Officer for Shriners Hospitals for Children International, and Senior Vice President of Strategy, Digital, and Innovation at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Across my career, I’ve united strategic vision with operational excellence to build sustainable philanthropic models and deepen community impact.

Education

Master of Public Administration, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi
B.A., Northern Kentucky University
Executive Education Certificate, Yale School of Management
Executive Education Certificate, Stanford Graduate School of Business

Spark Moment

My passion for birds and the natural world began in childhood on family camping trips to state and national parks—including birding-rich destinations like Corpus Christi and Galveston Island, Texas. A lifelong birder, outdoor enthusiast, and bird photographer, I bring both personal commitment and professional expertise to my work at the Lab. My belief in the power of scientific research, education, and community engagement to drive conservation impact aligns deeply with the Lab’s values and vision for a healthier planet.