Marie Olavere grew up in the Philippines and in Houston. She earned her BA in History from the University of Virginia (wahoowa!) and is pursuing an MBA from Rice University. Marie has worked as an AmeriCorps VISTA, Development Associate, Sponsored Programs Associate, and Director of Development for organizations including the Montrose Center, Rice University, Baylor College of Medicine, and Avenue CDC. Her career has focused on nurturing relationships with people and organizations in support of a good cause, especially to create greater accessibility to resources for all. After working as a historical researcher and guide for Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Virginia, she has dreamed of working for a similar organization that focuses on conservation, preservation, and education of historical and natural sites. (Houston Audubon fits the bill!)
Marie answered a few questions so we can get to know her better.
1. What is your favorite bird?
I always say a Blue Jay in honor of my grandmother who loved them, but I love an Eastern Screech-Owl! They look absolutely fierce, but cute at the same time. That, I’d say, is natural talent. I’m also quite partial to a Northern Parula. Their color scheme, their shape, their tweet—can’t beat that.
2. What was your first experience connecting to nature that you can remember?
I grew up in the Philippines, and every summer, we would take vacations to both natural sites, typically a beach, and to big cities. One of the best memories I have from early childhood was when my family and I camped on Pasacao Beach. One night, my great-uncle took me and my cousins to see crystal jellyfish that swam close to the coast. I was enamored.
3. What are you most excited about in your new role?
It’s been a dream of mine to work for a conservation and people-focused organization, so the excitement of simply working for Houston Audubon is at an all-time high. I’m most excited to connect with individuals from different walks of life who share the common goal of preserving the home we share with birds and all other wildlife.
4. What was your favorite vacation?
In 2023, my partner and I traveled to England to visit my family who live in Cornwall. My aunt and uncle live in the countryside close to Boscastle, and it was a much-needed respite from our city life. My aunt and uncle took us hiking through Peter’s Wood in Minster—it was beautiful. In true English fashion, we visited the castle on St. Michael’s Mount and Tintagel Castle, one of the potential sites for King Arthur’s castle, where we almost got washed into the ocean because we went on one of the stormiest days. It was worth it. After a few days in the English countryside, we’d planned a day in London where we wished we were back in Boscastle enjoying more of the greenery. All in all, this trip to Cornwall has been my favorite.
5. What is your proudest accomplishment?
Pursuing my MBA at Rice!
6. What is your favorite book to read?
Kate Atkinson’s “Life After Life” is by far one of the best books I’ve read. I’m also a big fan of Hilary Mantel’s “A Place of Greater Safety.” It may not be the most relaxing read, but what can I say, I love a good historical fiction novel.
7. What did you want to be when you were young?
I wanted to be either an architect or an archeologist! My uncle is an architect, and when I was a kid, I always loved seeing all of the blueprints and using tools when I went to work with him. Archeology was an interest because I was deeply fascinated by the ancient Egyptians and ancient Greece. I wanted to know more about their lives and understand the world that came before us. (The more honest reason might be the fact that I loved Indiana Jones. After I watched the original movies, I wanted to travel the world, fight the bad guys, read ancient texts, and see the ruins firsthand like he did!)
8. What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
Futbol! I played a lot of sports growing up, but soccer has and will always be my one true love. I’ll refrain from mentioning which is my favorite football club, but I love to talk sports anytime. I’m also partial to rugby, which I play. If anyone’s up to watch a Houston SaberCats match, let me know!
9. Would you rather ride a bike, ride a horse, or drive a car?
If I could ride my bike everywhere, I would, but alas, we live in Houston.
10. What was your first job?
At 16, I started working as a professional singer for churches.
Please join us in welcoming Marie to the team, and be sure to introduce yourself if you see her at a Houston Audubon sanctuary or event!
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