Staff Profile: Gayle Blanch

Name:  Gayle Blanch

Job Title:  Receptionist

What is your educational and professional background? 
Library Qualifications and Non-Profit Visitor Center Experience. I previously worked for the International Crane Foundation, Baraboo in the Visitor Center but prior to that my background was in Libraries in New Zealand and Macau.  I’ve worked primarily for the National Library of New Zealand as a Manager of a provincial (state) service center similar to the size of Wisconsin providing support services to schools and public libraries.

How long have you worked for ALF? I started in April 2010.

What is your favorite part of your job? I’m so new I’m not sure yet, but I like meeting the members and interacting with visitors – finding out their interests and hopefully expanding their knowledge of the Foundation and the Legacy Center; what the land ethic means and of Aldo Leopold and the accomplishments of his family. Along with receptionist duties I also help out other staff with specific projects and clerical tasks.

What is the biggest challenge? I think the biggest challenge will be to ensure that I don’t forget anything! There is so much of interest for such a wide range of people. I will be working on making sure I provide people with their information needs and ensuring that visiting here is a such a memorable experience that they want to support the Foundation and enjoy the benefits through membership.

How has working for ALF changed your thinking?  Working in non-profits since I have lived here in USA has opened my eyes to the generosity of visitors and members who have been inspired by the work and goals of such organizations. I’m sure more learning is to come.

What is your favorite Leopold quote/essay? Here is a couple. I am sure more will come as I learn more.
“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.”
”Harmony with land is like harmony with a friend; you cannot cherish his right hand and chop off his left”