Learn about our members

Professional Associates (PA) is a community of nearly 50 educators, scientists, innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and professionals who bring their real-world experience to support Fort Lewis College. Members share a commitment to strengthening student learning, enriching faculty teaching, and advancing community partnerships across the Four Corners.


Expertise across disciplines

PA members represent seven core areas of expertise:

  • Medicine, public health, and life sciences
  • Engineering, physical sciences, and technology
  • Environmental science and ecology
  • Education, sociology, and community development
  • Arts, communication, and humanities
  • Leadership, strategy, and organizational management
  • Law, policy, and government service

This breadth of knowledge allows PA members to serve as guest lecturers, mentors, advisors, and collaborators—bringing valuable insight to classrooms, academic programs, and community initiatives.


History and purpose

Professional Associates was established in 1999 by President Kendall Blanchard as a strategic advisory group. Since then, its role has expanded to include direct support for students, faculty, and community programming—while maintaining a strong advisory partnership with college leadership.

Meet our members

Each member brings a unique background and perspective to Fort Lewis College. Browse the directory below to explore individual bios, professional experience, and areas of expertise.

Donald Bruning


Profession: Chair and Curator, Department of Ornithology, Wildlife Conservation Society.

Education:

  • MA and PhD, University of Colorado
  • Undergraduate Studies, UCLA and University of Colorado
  • Research Focus: Grey Rhea in New York and Argentina

Dr. Donald Bruning is a distinguished ornithologist and conservationist with decades of experience in wildlife research, education, and international conservation policy. His career at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Bronx Zoo spanned multiple leadership roles, including Curator and Chair of the Department of Ornithology. A dedicated educator, he has taught at Fordham University, Manhattanville College, and the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School, while also engaging in extensive public outreach through lectures and publications.

Professional Career

  • Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) & Bronx Zoo
    • Chair & Curator, Department of Ornithology (1986-2002)
    • Curatorial Trainee to Curator (1967-1975)
    • Supervisor, WCS Travel Program (1974-1986)
  • Adjunct Professor at Fordham University (1974-1986)
  • Instructor, Manhattanville College & University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School
  • Lecturer at Cornell University & for various Audubon and avicultural groups

Professional Contributions:

  • American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA)
    • AZA Board Member
    • Chair, AZA Ethics Board
    • Member, Wildlife Management, Conservation Program, and Legislative Committees
  • Publications & Media
    • Authored over 100 articles and newsletters
    • Consultant for Time Life Books' wildlife series
    • Co-authored a book on Bald Eagles with photographer Art Wolfe

International Conservation Work

  • Representative for WCS & AZA at CITES (1985-2002)
    • Participated in global conferences in Buenos Aires, Ottawa, Lausanne, Kyoto, Fort Lauderdale, Harare, Nairobi, and Santiago
  • Board & Advisory Roles
    • Bahamas National Trust
    • Research and Conservation Foundation of Papua New Guinea
    • Faunalink Foundation
    • American Pheasant and Waterfowl Society
    • Hawaiian Bird Advisory Committee
    • Malaysian Wildlife Department Advisory Committee
  • Key Contributions
    • Established Crater Mountain Wildlife Management Area & educational programs in Papua New Guinea

Retirement & Personal Life

Dr. Bruning and his wife, Barbara, retired in 2002 and now reside in Durango, Colorado.