The Wilderness Society welcomes Mary O’Connor as Vice President of Giving and Impact

The Wilderness Society is pleased to announce the selection of Mary O’Connor as its new Vice President of Giving and Impact where she will help shape the organization's next chapter by leading a bold, integrated philanthropic strategy that supports lasting protections for wild places, addresses the climate and biodiversity crises, and ensures all people benefit from public lands. 

“For 90 years, The Wilderness Society has been a trusted leader in protecting the wild places that define our nation,” said TWS President Tracy Stone-Manning. “As we look to the future, we are called to build on that legacy with renewed purpose and bold vision. Mary’s deep commitment to people, values and place reflects the heart of our mission – and will be essential as we work to ensure public lands remain a source of strength and common ground for generations to come.” 

O’Connor brings more than 25 years of experience in environmental and humanitarian fundraising. Most recently, she served as Senior Vice President of Development at the National Parks Conservation Association, where she led a $300 million capital campaign. She has also held leadership roles at The Nature Conservancy, The Conservation Fund, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, and Women for Women International – building development programs that drive impact, increase donor engagement, and strengthen mission-driven organizations. 

A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in cultural anthropology, O’Connor brings a people-centered approach to conservation, rooted in the understanding that protecting public lands requires authentic connection to the communities and cultures that care for them. 

About The Wilderness Society  

The Wilderness Society is a leading conservation organization dedicated to protecting America’s wild places for future generations. Founded in 1935, our mission is to unite people to protect America’s natural landscapes, ensuring they remain vital, resilient and accessible. Through science, advocacy and community engagement, The Wilderness Society champions the preservation of wilderness areas, national parks, forests and other public lands, striving to inspire a culture of conservation and responsible stewardship. For more information visit www.wilderness.org  

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