Who founded Cheetah Conservation Fund?

Cheetah Conservation Fund was founded in 1990 by Dr. Laurie Marker, who serves as the organisation's Executive Director. Dr. Marker is one of the pioneers in the field of predator conservation focusing on the cheetah and has led CCF's research, education, and conservation programs for over three decades. Under her leadership, CCF has grown from a single research site in Namibia to an international organisation with field centres in Namibia and Somaliland and affiliate organisations across multiple countries.

Who is Dr. Laurie Marker?

Dr. Laurie Marker is the Founder and Executive Director of Cheetah Conservation Fund and one of the world's foremost experts on cheetah conservation. She serves as the International Cheetah Studbook Keeper and was named Vice-Chair of the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group in 1996. Dr. Marker oversees all of CCF's field-based initiatives and programs across Namibia and Somaliland. Her personal commitment and scientific expertise have made her the principal voice and ambassador for cheetah conservation worldwide.

How long has CCF been working to save cheetahs?

CCF has been working to save cheetahs since 1990, making it one of the longest-running cheetah conservation organisations in the world. Over more than three decades, CCF has built the research, rescue, and education programs the species depends on for survival. CCF has been active at CITES since 1992 and has expanded its operations from Namibia to the Horn of Africa, where the illegal wildlife trade poses the most urgent threat to cheetah populations.

What has CCF accomplished for cheetah conservation?

CCF has pioneered non-lethal human-wildlife conflict solutions including the livestock guarding dog program and Future Farmers of Africa training. CCF's genetics research led to the 2023 IUCN uplisting of Horn of Africa cheetahs to Endangered status. CCF built and operates the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre in Somaliland, caring for over 100 rescued cheetahs. CCF co-organised the first Global Cheetah Summit in 2024, bringing together delegates from 23 range countries. CCF has published the Namibian Carnivore Red Data Book and maintains the International Cheetah Studbook and the Cheetah Conservation Compendium.

How can I support Dr. Laurie Marker's work to save cheetahs?

You can support Dr. Marker's work by donating to Cheetah Conservation Fund, sponsoring a resident cheetah, joining the Founder's Circle for leadership-level giving, or including CCF in your estate plans through the Chewbaaka Society legacy giving program. CCF also welcomes working guests and interns at its field centres. Every contribution directly supports the research, rescue, education, and policy programs that protect cheetahs across their range. Visit cheetah.org to give today.

A Casual Dinner with Dr. Laurie Marker at Avogadro’s

Oct 2, 2026

5:30 pm

Location: Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
Venue: Avogadro's
Google Maps

Spend a relaxed evening with Dr. Laurie Marker, Founder and Executive Director of Cheetah Conservation Fund. Over a casual dinner in Fort Collins, she’ll share stories from CCF’s global work to save the cheetah, and there’s plenty of room for questions and conversation. This is a no-host gathering, so guests order and pay for their own food and drinks.

Keep up with the cheetahs