Butterfly Pavilion is proud to introduce Ryan Welch as our new President and Chief Executive Officer—a bold, visionary leader joining us from outside the organization, ready to chart an exciting path forward for invertebrate conservation, education, and global impact.

With nearly two decades of leadership experience, Ryan Welch brings to Butterfly Pavilion a powerful blend of strategic leadership, operational expertise, and nonprofit acumen—shaped by a career rooted in staff development, program innovation, and community-driven fundraising. With experience leading a science-based organization, he brings a deep commitment to mission-driven impact, supported by strong skills in change management, stakeholder engagement, and strategic growth.

Ryan is uniquely positioned to guide Butterfly Pavilion into its next era of global influence and organizational excellence. Ryan brings a passion for innovation and a deep dedication to protecting the tiny but mighty species that sustain life on Earth.

“Butterfly Pavilion is a place of wonder, purpose, and global importance. I’m honored to join this extraordinary team and community, and I look forward to advancing the mission in bold and meaningful ways.” — Ryan Welch, President and CEO, Butterfly Pavilion 

Why This Is Big News
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in Butterfly Pavilion’s 30-year history. As we celebrate three decades of transforming lives through invertebrate science and education, Ryan’s appointment signals a bold new chapter of growth and innovation.

Under his leadership, Butterfly Pavilion will: 

• Expand our global conservation initiatives 
• Accelerate research that protects pollinators, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, and threatened and endangered species 
• Deepen our community impact through immersive education 
• Champion the development of our future new facility—designed to serve generations to come 

Meet Ryan Welch 
Ryan brings visionary leadership, deep experience, and a strong commitment to conservation and community. From global strategy to on-the-ground impact, he has a proven track record of leading mission-driven organizations through growth and transformation.

Ryan is a seasoned nonprofit executive with nearly 18 years of experience driving revenue growth, building high-performing teams, and advancing organizational impact. Most recently Interim President and CEO at Morris Animal Foundation, Ryan has led strategic direction and operations in support of groundbreaking animal health research. He previously served as Chief Development Officer at the Foundation, increasing revenue by 70% and building innovative donor engagement programs.

His earlier roles at Rocky Mountain Public Media and The Coca-Cola Company sharpened his expertise in strategy, fundraising, and marketing. Ryan serves on Colorado State University’s Community Impact Committee for the Veterinary Health System and holds a journalism degree from the University of Kansas. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, fly fishing, and spending time with his wife, Courtney, their two children, and their pets.

Be Part of What’s Next
This is more than a leadership change, it’s a launchpad for the future. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are just discovering the magic of invertebrates, we invite you to join us in welcoming Ryan and supporting the exciting work ahead. 

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Visit us: Experience the wonder for yourself at Butterfly Pavilion
Learn More: View the Press Release 

Thank You 

To our staff, volunteers, supporters, partners, and guests: thank you for helping us reach this moment. With your continued support and Ryan at the helm, we’re ready to take Butterfly Pavilion—and the world of invertebrates—to new heights.