People – Honorary Directors

Robert W. Butler PhD, FRCGS, AFC

Past Chair of the Board, President and co-founder

Rob Butler was a founding director who served as President from 2003 to 2021 and where he led the strategic direction, growth and restructuring of the Pacific WildLife Foundation. He brings more than 40 years of experience as a scientist and a wealth of experience with public programs and administration. Rob is an Adjunct Professor in Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University, a Fellow of the American Ornithologists Society, The Explorer’s Club, and the Royal Canadian Geographic Society, and a Signature Member of the Artists for Conservation. He has received several awards for conservation and community outreach and is an Outstanding Alumnus of two universities. Rob’s interests also include art and film presenter and maker.

Rudi Kovanic

Past Director

Rudi served on the Board from 2003-2021 during the transition and growth of Pacific WildLife Foundation. He has more than 35 years of film and video documentary experience, specializing in scientific subjects. He has won many national and international awards at scientific, environmental and natural history film festivals including the President’s Award from CBC, two Golden Plaques at the Chicago International Film Festival.