Yesterday, I had the pleasure of photographing Wingspan 2026 – The Legacy & Leadership 35th Anniversary Gala, celebrating 35 years of incredible work by the Avian Conservation Center. Held on the beautiful, rustic grounds of the Center for Birds of Prey in Awendaw, this was an evening filled with conservation, celebration, and some truly unforgettable encounters with the magnificent birds we share our planet with!
The Avian Conservation Center does such important work throughout the Lowcountry and beyond. Since its founding in 1991, the organization has provided medical care and rehabilitation for injured birds of prey and shorebirds, supported scientific research, and educated the public about the vital role birds play in our environment. Its work also includes responding to oil spills that threaten vulnerable bird populations and their coastal habitats. Through its dedicated staff, volunteers, and educational programs, the Center helps injured birds recover, return to the wild whenever possible, and inspires people of all ages to become better stewards of our natural world.
The evening began with cocktails on the lawn, where guests had the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing feathered ambassadors. Staff members circulated with live owls, hawks, falcons, and kestrels, giving everyone a chance to admire these beautiful birds, ask questions, and learn more about their remarkable abilities. And WOW…what an experience to be standing just a few feet away from these incredible creatures!
The entertainment continued with a pair of Harris’s Hawks showing off their flying acrobatics as they swooped low over guests’ heads, flying from one perch to another. These demonstrations offered a wonderful reminder of the speed, agility, and precision that make birds of prey such extraordinary animals.
But one of the most memorable moments of the evening came just before everyone settled into the dinner tent. A recently rehabilitated red-tailed hawk was released back into the wild! Watching this beautiful bird take flight was a powerful, real-life demonstration of the Center’s mission and the difference its dedicated team makes every day. There’s something truly special about witnessing a second chance at life unfold right in front of you!
The gala also marked an important milestone in the Center’s leadership. Jim Elliott, founder of the organization, was recognized for his retirement and decades of passionate dedication to avian conservation. Jim established the Charleston Raptor Center in 1991 after recognizing the need for professional medical care for injured birds of prey in South Carolina. That vision grew into the Avian Conservation Center, which today encompasses wildlife medicine, conservation research, environmental response, and public education. His accomplishments have earned him some of South Carolina’s highest honors, including the Order of the Palmetto in 2016. Jim’s vision, commitment, and lifelong advocacy for wildlife have helped build a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit birds and the people who care about them for generations to come.
The evening also celebrated the promotion of Stephen Schabel to President and CEO. A Lowcountry native, Stephen joined the organization in 2003 and has devoted more than two decades to advancing its mission. With a background in education and a master’s degree in environmental policy from the College of Charleston, he brings a deep understanding of both conservation and the importance of connecting people with the natural world. His leadership will help guide the Center into its next chapter, building on its 35-year legacy while expanding its impact through medical care, research, education, and conservation. It was wonderful to see Stephen recognized for his hard work, dedication, and commitment to this important organization.
Of course, an evening like this wouldn’t be complete without a little fundraising excitement! Erin Kienzle, head auctioneer at Giving4Good Events and longtime host of WCIV’s Lowcountry Live, led a rousing fundraising effort to support the Center’s ongoing work. With such an inspiring mission and so many people passionate about protecting these incredible birds, it was a fitting way to bring everyone together in support of the organization’s future.
Wingspan 2026 was a wonderful celebration of the past 35 years and an exciting look toward the future. From the spectacular birds in flight to the emotional release of a rehabilitated hawk, the evening was a reminder of just how much dedication, compassion, and community support can accomplish. I was honored to be there to document this special milestone for the Avian Conservation Center — and to celebrate the people who work so tirelessly to protect the amazing birds that share our world. I am profoundly grateful that being a professional event photographer in Charleston has opened so many doors, led me to so many meaningful relationships, and given me a front-row seat to some amazing celebrations such as this!
* Nikon Z9 (x2), Nikkor Z 24-70 f2.8 II, Nikkor Z 70-200 f2.8 II, Godox V480 flash *
