On October 3, fourteen world-renowned wildlife conservationists from around the globe convened in Los Altos Hills, CA for an unprecedented week of professional networking, workshops and public education programs. The fifth annual WCN Expo week generated more energy, enthusiasm and electricity than ever before. Here is the week in review:

WCN staff and guest presenters provided three days of workshops for the conservationists. These sessions offered an opportunity to learn from each other and share information in a relaxed and informal setting. Workshop topics this year included strategic planning, effective presentations and marketing, developing a work plan, a review of the new WCN scholarship fund, how to get funding from the US Government, grant writing, donor development techniques and a presentation by Dr. Russell Mittermeier of Conservation International.
Photo courtesy of Sherry Paul

This elegant and fabulous event sold out in the first 3 weeks. 200 conservation supporters attended along with special guests model Cindy Crawford and musician Kenny G. Leopards Etc's beautiful wild cats and animals from Wild Things Inc. mingled with guests at the reception. The conservationists gave brief presentations on their work in the field, and awards were presented to donors who have given major support and leadership to the WCN scholarship fund and solar energy project. Kenny G led an exciting live auction and helped raise much-needed funds for conservation. The energy of the evening carried through to the end, when Kenny G serenaded the crowd with his saxophone. Guests danced and stayed until the very end, leaving with photos, community-crafted gifts and memories of this incredible evening for conservation.
Photos courtesy of Kent Fields:

The 5th Annual Wildlife Conservation Expo was a one-day event this year, bringing together 500 guests, 65 volunteers, 33 Associate exhibitors and 14 WCN conservation heroes. Three new speakers added spark and excitement to the event, expanding our knowledge of the world and its invaluable wildlife. This public event is a unique opportunity to learn about each project and its mission to save endangered wildlife, but also a chance to meet conservation heroes in person. It was an extraordinary day for wildlife enthusiasts.
Photos courtesy of Marty Varon:

The Garden Party was the final event of Expo week - a twelve-hour high-energy celebration of conservation with live music, live wild cats and a bounty of gourmet food and drink. This event provided our most generous supporters the opportunity to mingle and chat with the conservationists in a fun and informal setting. 55 WCN volunteers worked tirelessly to help create a perfect, seamless event. Guests arrived early, greeted by the lively music of Kuzanga Marimba, a Zimbabwe percussion band. Throughout the day guests chatted, strolled through the garden, met with conservationists for group or private conversations, and indulged in a gourmet feast prepared by one of WCN's most generous supporters. Talisman, a South African a cappella group from Stanford University, brought the crowd to tears with their moving songs of South African people and culture. Peruvian musicians, guitarist Homero Oyarce and pan-flute player Nayo Ulloa, performed the passionate music of their Incan homeland. And art abounded - John Banovich and Linda Rosen adorned the house with their beautiful wildlife art, with partial proceeds supporting WCN's conservationists. Many guests stayed all day, enjoying the perfect weather, great conversation and a lively celebration of our heroes of conservation.
Photos courtesy of Marty Varon: