A New Chapter for Ojai Raptor Center

As Ojai Raptor Center marks 25 years of rescue, rehabilitation, and education, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of
Chris Eksteen as our next Executive Director, beginning mid-November.

This transition offers a meaningful opportunity to honor Kim Stroud, whose vision, dedication, and deep love for raptors have guided ORC for more than two decades. Under her wing, the organization has grown stronger, expanded its reach, and touched countless lives, both avian and human. We are deeply grateful for her extraordinary service and lasting legacy. Thank you, Kim. 

Chris Eksteen brings more than 15 years of leadership in conservation, education, and community engagement. Most recently, he served in a senior leadership role at the Cape Leopard Trust in Cape Town, South Africa, where he oversaw strategy, operations, ethics, and governance. His previous experience includes directing an outdoor education center and managing international projects in environmental program design.

He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Education, where his research focused on inclusive field-based learning for visually impaired students, as well as postgraduate diplomas in Business Administration, Tourism Management, and Tertiary Curriculum Design.

Passionate about making nature accessible to all, Chris has contributed to inclusive conservation publications, curriculum innovation, and scientific research initiatives across Africa. In his free time, he enjoys exploring wild landscapes, birding, photography, and storytelling that connects people with the natural world.

As we look ahead, ORC is preparing for an exciting future—enhancing our facilities, expanding our team, and deepening our impact through wildlife education and community engagement. Your continued support makes all of this possible and fuels our commitment to protect and restore the natural world we share.

We invite you to join us on November 15th for our fundraiser and anniversary celebration as we honor our past, welcome new leadership, and take flight into the next 25 years.

The Ojai Raptor Center Board of Directors