Michael Behrens

Chief Development Officer

Michael A. Behrens joined Sustainable Conservation in 2020 as Chief Development Officer to grow all areas of support for the organization and tell their unique and effective story. Michael is a business, media, and fundraising professional with 25 years of experience working with Boards and entrepreneurs to fund positive change. He believes in being present and helpful to this community, and is passionate about bringing strategic partners and donors together to maximize impact.

Over his seven years at San Francisco State University, he served as Senior Director of Development for the College of Science and Engineering, Director of Finance and Facilities for the College of Liberal and Creative Arts, and Director of the Documentary Film Institute. As part of the University’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, Michael helped the team reach and surpass their goal of $150 million.

Before SF State, Michael launched the Professional Development and Filmmaker Services programs at the San Francisco Film Society, helping hundreds of filmmakers fund and execute their projects. He also mentored and supported filmmakers through his work with Film Arts Foundation.

Michael has served on nonprofit and for-profit Boards including Emergency USA, Playwrights Center of San Francisco, and Haight Ashbury Neighborhood Council. Complementing his background in the philanthropic sector, Michael has worked extensively in the arts as an educator, director, and producer of live theater, television, and documentary film around the world.

Michael holds an MNA from the University of San Francisco, and a BFA from University of Idaho. He lives in Mill Valley with his wife and son and is an avid angler and golfer.

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