After a decade at the helm of the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, MO, Virginia Busch is stepping down as CEO. She will remain a part of the EWC team, working on donor relations, marketing and branding, and strategic planning. Stepping up as the Center’s new leader is Mark Cross, effective January 1, 2022. Cross is currently Executive Director and will keep that title as he transitions into his new role.   

In the past decade, the growth of the Endangered Wolf Center is largely credited to Busch, rising from $500,000 in revenue to $3 million. Along with Busch, her board of directors played an integral role in placing the Wolf Center on its current path. From Busch: “Influencing the narrative about the misconceptions of wolves and other top predators and the essential roles they play in the health and sustainability of our ecosystems has been the most challenging aspect of my career thus far. I am proud of the work we have done on this front. I am excited to continue to work with the exceptional EWC team."

Founded in 1971 by Carol and Marlin Perkins, the EWC is now one of the country’s largest wolf conservation centers, focusing primarily on Mexican and red wolves. In the decade of Busch’s leadership, 43 wolves have been fostered and released in New Mexico, Arizona, and North Carolina. 

If you haven’t already, venture out to the Endangered Wolf Center, now is the perfect time. Break out those boots and that flannel for the full Fall experience … 

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*Photography credit to Kelsey Grant