far has mainly focused on restoring bird populations in foreign countries with histories of extreme environmental degradation. In July 2006, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted the first $500,000 toward a $22.5 million project that would include a new education center and expanded exhibits, which was slated for opening in 2008. In October 2008, the Aviary announced a $23 million renovation and expansion of exhibition space, the vast majority of which would be paid for by private foundations. Recent history Cheryl Tracy has served as the National Aviary’s Executive Director since July 1, 2013. Preceding Tracy in the executive director position were Patrick Mangus, who served from January 2009 to November 2012, Linda Dickerson from April 2007 to January 2009, and Dayton Baker from 1991 to 2007. As of March 2020, Jane Dixon is the President on the Board of Trustees. Under Tracy’s leadership, the National Aviary has undertaken several capital campaigns, including the completion of the $17.5 million “Taking Flight” campaign, which included the creation of the Penguin Point habitat home to a colony of endangered African Penguins. In the fall of 2010, the National Aviary completed an $18.5 million expansion and renovation project that included the opening of a new café, classrooms, and the Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone Theater. The Helen M. Schmidt Theater is the first indoor theater in the nation built specifically for bird shows. The Aviary also began outdoor shows (weather permitting) from its new Sky Deck, featuring live flight demonstrations of eagles, falcons and kites out over West Park. This project was followed by the construction of Condor Court, an outdoor space for Andean Condors designed to mimic the rocky cliffs of the high Andes Mountains. In 2018, the National Aviary’s oldest room, the Tropical Rainforest, underwent a major renovation that included new water features, improved energy efficiencies, and a ceiling made of bird-safe glass. The Tropical Rainforest habitat was the 2019 winner of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Design Award. The National Aviary opened The Garden Room, a 9,000-square-foot year-round event and education venue, in October 2020. On September 25, 2021, a Steller’s Sea Eagle named Kodiak, or Kody, got out of his habitat. After a coordinated effort involving National Aviary staff and volunteers, and the support of community members reporting sightings, Kodiak returned safely to the National Aviary on October 3, 2021. Gallery References External links Aviaries in the United States Bird