Sam Draper is the Arizona Policy Manager for Audubon Southwest, a regional office of the National Audubon Society. In this role, she contributes towards Audubon’s mission, “to protect birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow,” by analyzing and engaging in complex issues affecting water policies, especially groundwater and Colorado River management. Sam collaborates with a strong network of Audubon advocates to elevate environmental considerations and historical inequities in decision-making spaces and to communicate the nexus between people, birds, and water. 

Prior to joining Audubon, Sam worked at the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA). As AMWUA’s Conservation and Efficiency Program Manager, she advanced water conservation, demand management, and efficiency programs across AMWUA’s 10 member cities, including the creation of various outreach materials on the beauty of native and low-water-use landscaping. Sam also led larger successful regional efforts by developing collaborative proposals for state-regulated municipal conservation programs. She earned a B.A. in Political Science from Arizona State University, and entered the nonprofit sector motivated to work on water stewardship policy.

Located in Mesa, Arizona, Sam can be found cultivating her jungle of houseplants or enjoying the outdoors. Most likely though, Sam and her husband are chasing after their curious toddler and dog named “Goose.” Her favorite bird is Gambel’s Quail.