Welcome! I’m Ben Haywood and for the past twenty years, I have had the pleasure to teach and research, lead initiatives, manage change, and facilitate education and conservation programs.
Education & Training
My educational and professional background is multi-disciplinary, spanning training in adult learning, community development, environmental education and policy, conservation, public administration, and organizational communication and marketing. I have worked to harness my education to support healthy communities that simultaneously advance social justice, equitable political and economic systems, and a thriving environment. My scholarly work complements my professional experience as I have explored theories of learning, personal development, and place-based science education and participatory science as an opportunity to enhance effective teaching, professional development and learning, public engagement in science, and the stewardship of resources.
Work & Experience
I currently serve as the Director of Community Science for the National Audubon Society. A member of Audubon’s national science team, I am responsible for leading the organization’s flagship community science initiatives including the Christmas Bird Count, Climate Watch, and Great Backyard Bird Count programs. In this role, I work at the intersection of program management, scientific research, and community engagement to advance Audubon’s strategic Flight Plan while fostering inclusive and accessible community science opportunities across the Americas.
Certification & Coaching Practice
My role as a coach is an extension of my long-standing experience and passion for personal growth and thriving communities. I have completed extensive training via the International Coaching Federation (ICF) accredited Certified Life Coach Institute. Coaching in the ICF Coaching Model utilizes a client-centered and agentic process. My ICF Associate Certified Coach credential indicates training within the ICF Coaching Model, extensive practice using that model, and adherence to the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. I have over 100 hours of direct coaching experience.
Hobbies & Interests
As a wildlife enthusiast, I enjoy leisure time that involves hiking, birding, gardening, and spending time with friends and family. If not outdoors, you might find me trying a new recipe in the kitchen, reading a good book, enjoying travel and adventure, cutting up with my niece, sharing a drink with good friends, or checking out a new movie or theatrical production. I live in the beautiful city of Greenville, SC.
Color Your Life Coaching 