Conservation Education and Community Engagement
Education we need, for the world that we want.
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Environmental education and community engagement have been central to my work and life’s passion for over 24+ years. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with conservation organizations that are deeply committed to raising environmental awareness in their local communities, weaving this commitment into their very missions. My passion lies in finding new and meaningful ways to communicate science and conservation-related issues to diverse audiences through interdisciplinary learning, conservation field experiences, and stewardship programs. These efforts have always been rooted in a larger goal: galvanizing communities to drive meaningful, lasting change, particularly around environmental justice.
Environmental justice is not just about protecting nature—it’s about ensuring that all communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized, have equitable access to clean air, water, and safe, healthy environments. Throughout my career, I have worked to empower communities to address the disproportionate environmental burdens they face, from pollution to climate change impacts. My approach has always been grounded in the belief that real change comes when communities are at the forefront of the solutions, rather than being treated as passive recipients of aid or information. One of the key elements to successful environmental education and justice is designing experiences that engage diverse community members in learning about, and addressing, these critical issues. I have been fortunate to have success in increasing community involvement, building neighborhood leadership, and mobilizing people to take action. Through collaboration with local partners, who often may not have shared a direct focus on environmental issues but reached overlapping audiences, I’ve learned that the most powerful solutions arise when we work together. These collaborations create strong networks of change-makers, ready to tackle the intersecting challenges of environmental injustice, racism, and inequality. I know that engaging with a community means more than simply launching a program—it’s about working with partners who understand community needs, collaborating with organizations that share a vision for equity and justice, and building the capacity for long-term, sustainable impact. Environmental justice requires us to address the root causes of inequity, and I’ve spent years working with diverse communities to help them see themselves as part of the solution, while fostering collective action that leads to real change. By galvanizing communities around shared environmental and social justice goals, we not only create a healthier planet but also build stronger, more resilient communities. I believe that engaged and empowered communities lead to more diverse, inclusive, and responsive organizations that remain relevant to the populations they serve. My work is deeply rooted in the power of collaboration, collective action, and the unwavering belief that environmental justice is essential for building a sustainable future for all. |
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