Caitlin next introduced our speaker, Stacey Ott-Demangate, CEO, of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute. Stacey joined RTPI in January, coming from a similar position at the California Nature Art Museum in Santa Barbara County. Before that, she was the executive director at the Catalina Island Museum in southern California. She earned a master’s in museum studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program and a bachelor’s in anthropology from Arizona State University.
Program Chairman Dan Heitzenrater introduced Aaron Sidder, the Executive Director at the Audubon Community Nature Center. Aaron is an ecologist and science writer with over 10 years’ experience working with environmental non-profits, including land trust and conservation organizations like Bat Conservation International.
Aaron and his wife and dog are from Denver, CO and moved to Chautauqua County in 2025, however, her parents are from this area, so they are quite familiar with all that is going on. Aaron is trying to become a Buffalo Bills fan but… just until they play the Denver Broncos!
Dan Heitzenrater introduced today’s speakers, Jane Babinsky and Laura Corey of the Chautauqua County Humane Society.
Executive Director Jane Babinsky has held this position since October 1, 2024, after serving on the Board for some time. She has a BA degree from Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio and then attended Kent State University Graduate School for Therapeutic Recreation and Administration. She had a consulting business for a few years setting up Pet Therapy Programs in Ohio hospitals, nursing homes, psych facilities, schools and libraries. She also owned
K9Piper’s Place, a dog daycare facility which included training, grooming, and retail. Jane also has 11 years’ experience as a Veterinary Assistant.
