WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Wildlife Federation announced that Thomas Cluderay has been named the organization’s general counsel. Cluderay, who has served as deputy general counsel since 2022, will oversee the Federation’s complex legal affairs with a deep commitment to supporting its mission.

“Thomas has been an exceptional member of our team from day one, and we’re deeply grateful for his continued service,” said Ben Kota, chief operating officer at the National Wildlife Federation. “Over the past two years, he has demonstrated outstanding legal instincts and a relentless passion for supporting wildlife. As our legal efforts continue to grow, I can think of no person better prepared to help the Federation take its next steps.”

“I’m incredibly humbled and excited by this opportunity,” Cluderay said. “As a proud member of the National Wildlife Federation family, I’m struck each day by the impact and reach of our work. This is a critical moment for wildlife, and I look forward to supporting our ongoing efforts alongside my talented colleagues in Washington and around the country.”

Cluderay brings an extensive legal background to the role. Since joining the National Wildlife Federation, he has supported programs with compliance and risk management initiatives, advised senior management and partnered closely with Human Resources on workplace affairs. He previously served as associate general counsel at the Aspen Institute, where he helped the organization navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while developing an array of new organizational policies. He has also served as general counsel for other organizations, including the Environmental Working Group, a national environmental health organization. 

A North Carolina native, Cluderay received his BA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his JD from Georgetown University Law Center. He is an avid photographer, hiker and backpacker in his spare time.