After NASBR’s 50th anniversary, the NASBR Board of Directors (BoD) identified the need for a strategic plan to help guide future growth and direction. The BoD started the process with a Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) analysis of the organization in 2024, then contracted with Impact by Design (IbD) to facilitate a two-day strategic planning workshop for the BoD prior to the annual meeting in October 2024 in Guadalajara, Mexico. IdB added their expertise to the process, aided in data interpretation, and their facilitation allowed all board members to fully participate in the workshop. During the workshop, the BoD explored (1) NASBR’s purpose and niche in its ”ecosystem” and articulated what the Society seeks to achieve, (2) different options or scenarios for NASBR's future services and identified implications for the Society, (3) governance structures the BoD needs in order to operate a successful NASBR, and (4) identified the most viable options or scenarios for NASBR’s future and clarified next steps for involving membership. Based on this workshop and a continued collective effort by the BoD, NASBR developed its first-ever strategic plan to guide efforts over the next five years (2025 – 2030).
OUR MISSION We promote the study and conservation of bats by facilitating communication and collaboration among scientists, educators, and the general public. This strategic plan was developed to align with the values of this society, which we feel is the ‘secret sauce’ of what makes NASBR special to its members.
Support for Emerging Scientists We invest in the next generation of bat researchers through student and early-career professional mentorship, funding, training opportunities, and platforms for professional growth and recognition. Collaboration & Community We foster a supportive, inclusive, and diverse research community. We encourage collaboration among scientists, students, institutions, and the public across North America and beyond. Scientific Excellence We are committed to advancing and promoting rigorous, evidence-based research in bat biology and conservation.
Conservation Commitment We believe that bats are vital to healthy ecosystems and deserve informed, science-based conservation efforts. We support research and actions that protect bat populations, their habitats, and ecological functions.  
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