Banu Qureshi first learned about Vital Ground in 1996, a time when the organization experienced growing pains. At the time a New York investment banker, Banu was contacted by Vital Ground Executive Director Dan Walker. Over the next 15 years Banu’s interest in endangered species and business savvy helped shape Vital Ground into the successful nonprofit it is today. She served as a board member from 1996 through October 2011 and as chair from 2000 to 2006. During her years of service, Banu was instrumental in turning Vital Ground from a bear hobbyist group to a viable land trust. “I feel my biggest accomplishment is that I helped to turn Vital Ground into the professional, financially sustainable nonprofit it is today, “she says. Banu lives in Maryland, with her husband, Mike, and her two children, and she has turned her love of dogs into a dog training business, which keeps her busy.