How can we save the over 1 billion birds that die from window collisions each year in the U.S.? NYC Bird Alliance advocates for city-wide change: bird-safe glass to make our windows visible to migrating birds. This critical work was featured in the PBS series Wild Hope: Building for Birds last spring. We’ll be holding a special screening followed by a conversation with the episode’s producer, Sam LeGrys, and NYC Bird Alliance’s Director of Conservation, Dr. Dustin Partridge, who is featured in the film.

About the Speakers:

Sam LeGrys is an Emmy Award-winning producer and experienced cinematographer who strives to share the natural world with global audiences. He has contributed to more than 50 hours of broadcast and digital media, from sweeping wildlife series to tales of science and exploration. Sam's recent work includes 10 episodes of "Wild Hope" for PBS and HHMI Tangled Bank Studios, and "Secrets of the Whales" for Disney+. 

Dr. Dustin Partridge, the Director of Conservation and Science at NYC Bird Alliance, is a pioneering scientist in urban conservation in North America. His work, focused on wildlife conservation in New York City, has driven cities to reconsider the ecological value of the built environment. Dr. Partridge’s published research has reshaped the national conversation on the role of cities in conservation and led to significant policy changes locally, in New York City.  An adjunct professor at Columbia University and a sought-after speaker in media and public forums, Dr. Partridge is a scientist whose approach to conservation is based in using science to drive solutions that benefit both wildlife and people.

Yashi Dadhich is the Director of Energy and Sustainability at the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. As a result-oriented ambitious sustainability professional, Ms. Dadhich leads the iconic venue’s award-winning sustainability program, which includes the largest green roof in New York State, a unique wildlife habitat, a one-acre working farm and one of the region’s leading energy conservation initiatives. Ms. Dadhich’s goal is to align creative and innovative sustainable business strategies into organizations to reduce their impacts on our planet and our communities.

Click here to view the full lineup for the 2025-2026 Winter Lecture Series.

The NYC Bird Alliance Lecture Series is made possible by the support of Claude and Lucienne Bloch.