Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY — A Brooklyn, New York woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Jillian Rubio is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For her fellowship, Jillian will partner with Stoked Mentoring, an action sports mentoring program in New York City, and together they will create a unique opportunity for Brooklyn youth to gain supportive mentors, along with a team of people determined to see them succeed. Youth participating in this program will be introduced to both the resources of the Prospect Park Audubon Center and the life lessons of an action sports mentoring program. Each participant will be paired with a mentor and will take part in both a series of onsite environmentally-focused workshops and activities at Prospect Park and in offsite activities including snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing. By engaging urban youth in this unique way, they will have an opportunity to be outdoors and experience nature, on their terms.
Rubio has been involved in conservation efforts for over a decade and has proven to be a dedicated and innovative environmental educator. In her current position at Prospect Park, she leads Audubon’s first urban Audubon Center, welcoming over 90,000 visitors a year to this unique and beautiful green space; bringing nature experiences and environmental education to children and adults. Previously,
Rubio worked for Project Learning Tree in Arizona and the Arizona Association for Environmental Education. Rubio received her Masters in public administration in public and non-profit management and policy from New York University’s Wagner School of Public Service, and her Bachelors in natural resource management from the University of Arizona.
“Jillian is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“The opportunity to be a part of this Fellowship has motivated me to expand how the Prospect Park Audubon Center serves our community in a unique and innovative way,” said Rubio. “Being based in Brooklyn--within an urban setting—has enabled us to meet the mission of the Center while serving a diverse urban community. My project further expands this ideal, by identifying the specific interests of a group we want to reach, namely youth in their early teens, and meeting them with a collaborative program that is both exciting and relevant”.
Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Brooklyn Educator Recognized for Environmental Leadership
Corvallis Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY—A Corvallis, Oregon woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Heath Keirstead is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For her fellowship, Keirstead will focus her efforts on helping community members make more environmentally-friendly decisions in the unique ecosystem in which they live. By sharing guides on invasive plants and training volunteers to perform weed audits, Keirstead will be empowering people to maintain healthy backyards, encouraging conscientious actions that will eventually lead to a healthier, more water-wise environment. Replacing invasive plants with native species benefits everyone – wildlife and humans included.
Involved in conservation efforts for seven years, Keirstead is currently the Education and Outreach Coordinator of the Benton Soil & Water Conservation District. In her present role, Keirstead reaches more than 3,000 students through classroom visits, educational events, fairs and workshops, encouraging kids to explore their natural environments and treat conservation as not just a hobby, but as a practice and a career choice. She brings a similar conservation message to more than 2500 adults each year.
“Heath is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“The TogetherGreen Fellowship is giving me the opportunity to tackle the costly issue of invasive species by using an innovative format that will empower residents to start with their own backyards,” said Keirstead.
Keirstead has been affiliated with Benton Soil & Water Conservation District since 2006. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Keirstead received a Masters degree in soil science from Oregon State University and a Bachelors degree in environmental studies from the University of Vermont. In addition to her current role, she is a trained Master Recycler, coaching her co-workers on recycling opportunities and food waste composting and she’s on the board of the statewide non-profit Oregon Green Schools Association.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Santa Fe Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY – A Santa Fe, New Mexico woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Avery Anderson is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For her fellowship, Anderson will focus her efforts on the restoration of a degraded section of the Dry Cimarron River in northeastern New Mexico. She plans to help improve both water quality and supply through on-site volunteer workshops that reach out to the local ranching community.
The Coordinator of The Quivira Coalition’s Conservation and Ranch Leadership and Youth (CARLY) program has been involved in a wide range of conservation efforts before choosing to focus on organizing ranchers and conservationists. After working as a field assistant for the Wyoming Wolf Project and as a field researcher in Kenya’s Amboseli - Tsavo West ecosystem, Anderson became interested in studying not only wildlife, but people’s interactions with wildlife and the environment as a whole. That led her to work as a children’s environmental science teacher at the Urban Resources Institute, as the lead instructor for incoming Yale Forestry & Environmental Studies graduate students in New Haven, CT, and ultimately to her current role in Santa Fe. At The Quivira Coalition she uses her skills and experience to help develop leadership skills in the field of land conservation.
“Avery is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I feel very privileged to have been selected as a TogetherGreen Fellow, and know that the support of Audubon and Toyota will be a great asset to my restoration project on the Dry Cimarron River,” said Anderson. “The Quivira Coalition and I are eager to engage a diverse audience with this project, and look forward to meeting new folks at our upcoming river restoration workshops.”
Anderson received a Masters from the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies. Her Master’s project, which focused on establishing a dialogue about the carnivore-livestock conflict in Wyoming, will be published in a book entitled, “Large Carnivores, People and Governance.” She graduated from Hamilton College with a degree in Geoarcheology.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Dayton Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY —A Dayton, Ohio man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Tom Hissong is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Hissong will focus his efforts on piloting a new project named Plan-it Green that will engage students, teachers, and parents from Kiser Elementary School in Dayton, Ohio with challenging educational experiences focused on the planet. Students will participate in multiple field trips, conservation actions and scientific investigations at the Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm north of Dayton. Through simple action projects like monitoring use of paper towels in classrooms / restrooms and investigating ways to reduce waste during lunch, students will become environmental stewards creating measurable conservation change and help lead their teachers, families, friends and communities in becoming more environmentally-aware.
Involved in conservation efforts for 32 years, Hissong is currently the Education Coordinator for Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm. In his current role, Hissong introduced more than 20,000 children to nature and farming during the 2006-2007 school year alone – encouraging a whole new generation of environmental stewards to explore their natural environments. Previously, at the Dayton Museum of Natural History, he had the opportunity to educate thousands of students, young and old, on the natural history of their local community, through topics such as geology, trees, insects, birds, nature sketching, astronomy and many more
“Tom is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am truly honored to be selected for the Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship and am excited about using my new conservation leadership skills in my home community.” said Tom. “I hope that I can be the spark that ignites a passion to protect and nurture our natural world in young students, just like someone did for me when I was young. My goal for this project is to take students with little knowledge about the natural world, lead them to a sense of wonder and excitement for the natural world, to conservation action on behalf of the natural world and the environment that sustains us.”
Hissong has been affiliated with Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm and Park District since 1994. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
He received his Bachelors degree in environmental education from The Ohio State University. A dedicated environmental educator, Hissong received the 2007 Tamar Chotzen Audubon Educator of the Year Award.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Local Educator Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY —An environmental educator from Tacoma, Washington is the recipient of a new national fellowship for individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Stephanie Swaim is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Swaim will focus her efforts on engaging and educating middle-school students at Fort Lewis Army Base through an after-school program called Osprey Club. The youth will volunteer in conservation efforts, working on ecology projects run by the Tahoma Audubon Society that include clean-up projects and wildlife studies. They will also serve as mentors to younger kids in the elementary schools and daycares on base. Swaim hopes to involve 50 students in the program’s first year – resulting in 1,000 hours of volunteer work and a group of students who can serve as environmental leaders in their schools and communities.
Swaim has been involved in conservation efforts for ten years and is currently the Education Coordinator for the Tahoma Audubon Society. Swaim has proven herself to be a dedicated and innovative environmental educator, who is determined to make nature accessible to all kids. As coordinator of the JASON Project at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, she built a district-wide science education program for over 8,500 middle-school students. Swaim has led programs at nature centers around the country, including the New England Aquarium and the Florida Keys Ocean Science Center.
“Stephanie is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I'm excited to be a part of this first cohort of conservation leaders,” said Swaim. “We are an Audubon chapter that was built on the passion of our volunteers to create a community of educated nature-advocates. I'm happy to be able to continue to build out educational programming to include our military families, who make up such a large part of our community.”
“Stephanie is a great asset to the community and to Tahoma Audubon,” said Bryan Flint, Executive Director of Tahoma Audubon Society. “We are proud that her vision and talents are being recognized and supported.”
Swaim has been affiliated with Tahoma Audubon Society since January 2008. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Swaim received a Masters degree in oceanography from the University of Rhode Island and a Bachelors degree in biology from Mount Holyoke College. In addition to her current duties for Audubon, Swaim is a certified Wilderness First Responder.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Richmond Resident Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY. —A Richmond, Vermont resident is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Jim Shallow is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Shallow will focus his efforts on conserving the Sherman Hollow Brook Watershed now and into the future. He will be testing new software to apply the principles of Adaptive Management - to create strategies that work with community to protect the natural resources of Sherman Hollow. He will use this experience to teach to other conservationists who need to develop more effective conservation plans themselves. Sherman Hollow is a unique place where nature, education and recreation come together. Development threatens to fragment forest habitat and degrade water quality in the watershed. Shallow’s project will work with the people in the community to protect wildlife habitat, open space and the opportunities to earn about nature, wildlife and conservation at the Green Mountain Audubon Center, Birds of Vermont Museum and the Sleepy Hollow Inn and Ski Touring Center.
Involved in conservation efforts for two decades, Shallow is currently the Conservation and Policy Director of Audubon Vermont. He previously served as the Vermont Natural Resources Council’s Forest Program Director and as Audubon Vermont’s Executive Director—giving him the background and experience that he can now share with other conservationists to support and strengthen their own efforts.
“Jim is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I have the privilege to live and work in a landscape that is home to both dynamic conservation minded-people and communities and vibrant wildlife populations,” said Shallow. “This fellowship will help me tap into a national network to give back to the local community and help protect the wildlife, forests and rivers we all cherish.”
Shallow has been affiliated with Audubon Vermont since 1997. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Shallow received a Bachelors degree in history and political science from Colorado College. In addition to his duties for Audubon Vermont, Shallow sits on the board of the Vermont League of Conservation Voters and is a founding member of the Vermont Woodlands Association.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
San Antonio Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY. —A San Antonio, Texas woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Iliana Peña is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Peña will focus her efforts on expanding the reach of a semester-long program for 4th grade students that teaches them about ecology by spending time outdoors recording and listening to nature sounds. The effort is called Soundscape Science, and it enhances critical thinking skills while connecting kids to nature—perhaps inspiring them to protect it in the future. Peña hopes to broaden the Soundscapes curriculum throughout Texas and advocate for an environmental education school curriculum – bringing nature into the classrooms of kids who might otherwise miss out on such opportunities.
The Director of Conservation Education for Audubon Texas has been involved in conservation efforts for 10 years. Four years ago, Peña helped the community turn a sludge lagoon site into the educational and engaging green space: that is now the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center. Peña helped staff the center by training the first 25 docents from the small, but strong Mitchell Lake Wetland Society. Since she first started her career, as a conservation intern for the Welder Wildlife Foundation, Peña has demonstrated an incredible drive to make engaging environmental education programs accessible to everyone.
“Iliana is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I’m excited about being one of the 40 people that this fellowship brings together,” said Peña. “It is a wonderful vehicle in which to learn and explore new ideas from stimulating people from all over the country. I know this fellowship will help me garner new knowledge that will benefit me, my community and our environment.”
Peña has been affiliated with Audubon Texas since 2003. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Peña received a Masters in range and wildlife management from Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2002. Prior to that she graduated from Texas A&M Unversity – College Station with a Bachelors in wildlife and fisheries science in 1998. In addition to her duties with Audubon Texas, Peña also sits on the South Central Texas Regional Water Planning Group and the San Antonio River Improvement Mission Reach Environmental Committee.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Newton Woman selected for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY —A Newton, Massachusetts woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Gloria Villegas-Cardoza, Director of Education for Mass Audubon, is one of only 40 people selected from across the nation for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Villegas-Cardoza will focus her efforts on establishing long-lasting partnerships to build urban environmental communities in Lawrence and Lowell Massachusetts. By partnering with community-based organizations in each city and helping them to develop environmental educational programs, Villegas-Cardoza will support service learning and citizen science projects created for community members by community members that focus on environmental issues that are critical to them. Residents, who might never have considered themselves conservationists, will be encouraged to learn, create and protect – making these two urban areas a better place for habitat, wildlife, and humans alike.
Villegas-Cardoza has been affiliated with Mass Audubon since 1999, but - has been involved in science, education and conservation efforts for over three decades. She is a dedicated environmental educator, previously working as the Education Manager for the Boston Nature Center, Mass Audubon’s presence in that city, and as a volunteer educator for the Boston Museum of Science. In her native Venezuela, Villegas-Cardoza was the Executive Director at the Center for Scientific studies (CEC-Caracas) and founder of Pro-Ciencia Foundation, an organization dedicated to research and education.
“Gloria is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am thankful and proud of my selection as a Conservation Fellow for the TogetherGreen Leadership Program as part of the alliance between National Audubon and Toyota North America,” said Villegas-Cardoza. “This opportunity will allow me to continue growing as conservation leader and broaden my impact in Massachusetts urban communities. As an environmental educator, I believe that all people can make difference in the world if opportunities to learn and act are given to them. More than ever, our conservation efforts for all people and wildlife need to be focused on inspiring others, coaching them and working hard together to change behaviors.”
Villegas-Cardoza received a Masters and DEA degree in Latin America Studies with a concentration in Science, technology and education from Sorbonne University in France, and a Bachelors degree in Biology with a concentration in animal eco-physiology and behavior from the Universidad Central de Venezuela. In the US Gloria attended graduate programs at Lesley University. In addition to her duties at Massachusetts Audubon, Villegas-Cardoza sits on the board of the Audubon Expedition Institute at Lesley University and the Latino After-School Initiative. She has published a number of articles in both scientific and education journals, including Behaviour.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations. A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Coos Bay Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Coos Bay, Oregon man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Eric Clough is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Clough will focus his efforts on conserving the North Spit of Coos Bay, home to many species of waterfowl, raptor, and other birds and wildlife. With the Cape Arago Audubon Society, Clough will find new and innovative ways to protect this important habitat, while improving citizens’ access to the North Spit. By engaging property owners and other stakeholders in the planning and management discussions, Clough hopes to build a coalition that will ensure the survival of the North Spit – as well as support the creation of the North Spit Shorebird Sanctuary.
Involved in conservation efforts for 14 years, Clough is currently the president of the Cape Arago Audubon Society, a position where he has revitalized his fellow Audubon volunteers, restored regular monthly meetings and engaged the chapter in new community-based restoration projects, including habitat enhancement at Pony Creek Wetlands in North Bend and Millicoma Marsh in Coos Bay. By taking the time to talk to as many of their 180 chapter members as possible, Clough has been able to foster new relationships and spark interest in participation.
“Eric is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
Clough has been affiliated with the Cape Arago Audubon Society since 2004. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
“I am very honored to have been selected as a TogetherGreen Fellow,” said Clough. “Support from our local Audubon chapter members, other community members, and the support of the TogetherGreen grant has sparked the creation of what will become the North Spit Shorebird Sanctuary.”
Clough received a Bachelors degree in environmental chemistry from Humboldt State University. In addition to his current role, he is a Natural Resource Specialist for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, a position he has held for 13 years.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Lawton Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Lawton man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Eric Beck is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Beck will focus his efforts on supporting and expanding the Oklahoma Important Bird Areas program through education and volunteer activities that both create a measurable conservation difference by protecting habitat and encouraging people to enjoy and observe native wildlife, including threatened species like the Lesser Prairie Chicken and the Northern Bobwhite.
The former Field Technician for the Sutton Avian Research Center’s Lesser Prairie Chicken Project and current Coordinator for the Oklahoma Important Bird Areas program has been involved in conservation efforts for four years. A lifelong volunteer, he has organized many different bird counts, including three Christmas Bird Counts in Atoka County, Oklahoma. Beck has also dedicated over 200 volunteer hours to the Oklahoma Important Bird Areas program in the last year and half, and achieved designation for two state-level Important Bird Areas. Without Beck’s tireless dedication, the Oklahoma Important Bird program—and the habitat and wildlife it protects—would have suffered badly.
“Eric is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“By sharing my knowledge and experience and working to create opportunities for others involving conservation, I can do my part to plant the seed of knowledge,” said Beck. “I truly believe the more that people think about conservation and their impacts on our shared world, the cleaner and safer our world will become.”
Beck has been affiliated with Oklahoma Audubon since 2004. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Beck is currently pursuing a Bachelors degree in biology from Cameron University, and served in the U.S. Army for 3 years. His experience working and volunteering for Oklahoma Audubon inspired him to publish three articles in the Bulletin of the Oklahoma Ornithological Society.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Wilmington Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Wilmington, North Carolina woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Dawn York is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
York will focus her efforts on preserving 2,100 acre Eagles Island, which supports important populations of threatened and endangered species and is one of the last natural estuarine islands in North Carolina. The extraordinary efforts of the Eagles Island Coalition which includes New Hanover County Soil & Water Conservation District, Cape Fear Resource Conservation & Development, Cape Fear River Watch and other local have already preserved over 500 acres for which will Working with local communities, government agencies, conservation organizations and landowners, York will develop a conservation management plan for the island, create an informational website and brochure encouraging Wilmington residents to visit and learn about the island, and work to increase support for the island’s protection. Directly across the Cape Fear River from downtown Wilmington, Eagles Island is a place that’s important for everyone – wildlife, plants, and people.
A Senior Coastal Biologist for Coastal Planning & Engineering of North Carolina, a coastal engineering firm, York has been involved in conservation efforts for a decade. Her dedication to protecting wildlife and natural habitats has taken her to the Bahamas, Ecuador, Washington and the wetlands and swamps of North Carolina, as she worked on biotic community research to assist State, Federal and local municipalities take conservation planning steps. In her current role, York has handled several large-scale projects that necessitate working with many lead state and federal agency representatives, non-profit organization leaders and local governments – helping them to become engaged and involved in coastal protection and planning.
“Dawn is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am honored to represent the state of North Carolina as a TogetherGreen Fellow,” said York. “I feel this opportunity will drive my momentum to make a difference in the continuing efforts for conserving Eagles Island. I am extremely optimistic the conservation management plan will lay a path for future conservation efforts and will bring groups together to work towards the common goal of protecting Eagles Island for generations.”
York has been affiliated with Cape Fear River Watch since 2007. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
York received both a Masters degree in marine science and a Bachelors degree in biology and environmental studies from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. In addition to her duties as a coastal biologist at Coastal Planning & Engineering of North Carolina, York sits on the Board of Directors at Cape Fear River Watch and is a steward for the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Charlestown Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Charlestown, Rhode Island woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Ana Flores is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For her fellowship, Flores will work to create programming that involves the adolescent population at the Kettle Pond Visitor Center where she is artist in residence. Flores would like to increase their engagement by designing and nurturing a more inviting habitat. She will use components of a popular series she has created called the Green Cafe, an art and environment lecture and film series which draws monthly audiences of up to 100, to model programming for the youth. Flores will begin by training a core group of ten high school students who will then design monthly events for their own age group. The students’ plans will include exploring the local refuges, as well as creating monthly public programs that combine art and nature.
For over a decade, Flores has been involved with environmental groups and taught environmental art. She has developed a reputation for creating outdoor sculptural installations that encourage the public to explore their natural environment and local history. These projects include Poetry of the Wild, a community project that has traveled to various sites in Rhode Island as well as Colorado, which includes “poetry boxes;” Punctuating Place, an installation along the trail of the refuge near Kettle Pond; and the design of Depot Square Park which will include “a talking wall” that records quotes from Hope Valley, Rhode Island citizens, and historians.
“Ana is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“Beginning with cave paintings, the earliest records of art making, artists have always addressed our fragile and ever changing relationship with nature,” said Flores. “Today, with the amount of destruction happening to our ecosystems, I feel artists can no longer just document and observe from the margins – they must pair up with scientists to help bring the voice of the planet to those who are not listening. I hope to inspire people of all ages: adults, teenagers and college students to use the combined disciplines of art and science, to better understand this beautiful planet, celebrate or lament it through the arts, and ultimately imagine new, more sustainable ways to live on it.”
Flores has been affiliated with the US Fish and Wildlife Service since 2006. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Flores received a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. In addition to her current position, she has been the coordinator of the Gaia Dialogues, a forum for discussion and collaboration between environmentalists, artists and educators in Rhode Island. She has received many honors for her art, including the Outstanding Conservation Educator Award from the Southern Conservation District of Rhode Island, a New Works Grant from the Rhode island Foundation to establish her residency with the USFW Service, a follow up Strategy grant for creating an “innovative, creative community model” at the USFW center, and multiple grants from the Rhode Island Council on the Arts.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Bainbridge Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Bainbridge Island, Washington woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Barbara Sacerdote is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Sacerdote will focus her efforts on harnessing the power of the Web for conservation, by developing an interactive, online version of Audubon Washington’s “Guide to Bird and Community Conservation”. The printed publication is a layperson’s conservation planning and action tool for protecting special areas throughout Washington State. The online version of the Guide will provide Audubon chapter members with an interactive, guided program, maps of bird populations layered with county data land use, and links to other data in the public domain. The activists can track their work, assess threats, and act to end or diminish these threats.
A pilot version of the printed Guide to Bird and Community Conservation is being tested by the Pilchuck Audubon Chapter. The Chapter is designing and implementing a conservation plan around Port Susan Bay. Located at the mouth of the Stillaguamish River in Snohomish County, the area is critical habitat for tens of thousands of migrating birds, up to 16 species of raptors, large flocks of wintering ducks, Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, and Snow Geese. Port Susan Bay is one of only four sites in Puget Sound that regularly supports more than 20,000 shorebirds in a season.
The interactive Guide to Bird and Community Conservation will be available for the 20,000 Audubon members in Washington State who are, or wish to become, conservation activists.
A skilled fundraiser, Sacerdote is currently the Development Director for Audubon Washington. After holding Development positions at the Rural Development Institute, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and the Tacoma Art Museum, Sacerdote switched mid-career to the field of conservation.
“Barbara is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I believe individual action is the greatest force for conservation in America today. As we confront concerns of transcendent importance today - the very survival of the human race and of the planet - it is up to each of us to take personal action to turn the tide in our favor. My project is small in the grand scheme of things, but I hope to provide individuals with a user-friendly tool to protect the 74 Important Bird Areas we have in Washington State. It is up to us to take personal responsibility for these landscapes and ensure they continue to provide our native and migrating birds with relatively abundant food, water, and shelter. After all, these are the basics we need for our own families.”
Sacerdote has been affiliated with Audubon Washington since April 2008. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Sacerdote received a Masters degree in arts administration from Columbia University and a Bachelors degree in marketing and journalism from Southern Oregon University. In the past, Sacerdote has served on several Northwest Development Officers Association committees, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the Seattle Public Schools Alliance for Education.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Philadelphia Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Keith Russell is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Keith will focus on organizing a volunteer monitoring effort to collect data on bird collisions with building windows, combining citizen science and wildlife conservation efforts. This study will help reveal how building lights and building glass in downtown Philadelphia affect many of the migratory birds that pass through the city each spring and fall, allowing Russell and others to work towards making the city a safer place for these prodigious travelers. Turning off lights and reducing the transparency and reflection caused by building glass will help protect these birds from deadly collisions, educate community members and business owners about the perils migratory birds face in cities, and ultimately help slow the rate at which many of these species are now declining.
Involved in conservation efforts for more than two decades, Russell is currently an Outreach Coordinator for Audubon Pennsylvania. He works directly with the staff of Fairmount Park as well as Benjamin Rush State Park to improve habitat for birds through activities such as meadow restorations and invasive plant removal. Russell has also helped to initiate monthly bird walks, encouraging residents and visitors to learn about and enjoy the impressive diversity of their local birds.
“Keith is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am extremely grateful to have received support from Audubon and Toyota to study the problem of bird collisions in Philadelphia,” stated Russell. “We hope the study’s results will be instrumental in bringing about the changes necessary to reduce the number of collisions locally and helpful to raise awareness of the problem in other geographic areas.”
Russell has been affiliated with Audubon Pennsylvania since 2005. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Russell received a Masters degree in zoology from Clemson University and a Bachelors degree in biology from Cornell University. In addition to his current position, he is the founder of the Philadelphia Mid-Winter Bird Census and has coordinated it since 1987. A dedicated birder, Russell has received several awards from the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club for his contributions to the field. His writings have appeared in a number of ornithological publications including the Birds of North America and Pennsylvania Birds.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Sparks Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Sparks, Nevada woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Robin Powell is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Powell will focus her efforts on helping build conservation stewardship in the Lahontan Valley Wetlands Important Bird Area which is the largest important bird area in Nevada. Powell will be working with local landowners and land managers to foster their leadership skills and build a conservation action network that will, in turn, help protect the wildlife that depends on this unique ecosystem for habitat, including many birds that are listed as species of concern. Powell will integrate the various cultural, ecological, and economical viewpoints of the different groups – including federal, state, and tribal personnel, recreational groups, non-profit organizations, and private landowners – in order to promote a unified conservation effort for the region, keeping it a healthy, beautiful place for all Nevada residents to enjoy.
Involved in conservation efforts for over a decade, Powell is currently the Nevada Director of Bird Conservation for the National Audubon Society. In her current position, Powell manages Nevada’s 39 Important Bird Areas, where she is focused on building partnerships and collaborations with key partners to protect, restore, and enhance key habitats within the important bird areas. Previously, she worked as an environmental manager for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and environmental specialist for the Walker River Paiute Tribe for over eight years, helping community members to protect and improve their lands’ health and natural resources.
“Robin is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am very excited about the opportunities that the TogetherGreen Fellowship has afforded,” said Powell. “The Lahontan Valley Wetlands Important Bird Area is very unique due to the diversity of bird species, the congregations of migrating birds, and the extreme importance that the wetland, shrubland, and agricultural habitats provide to support migrating and residential birds. I look forward to strengthening conservation stewardship, increasing collaborative conservation activities within the valley, and fostering partnerships across diverse groups of interest.”
Powell has been affiliated with the National Audubon Society since 2007. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Powell received a Bachelors degree in biology and anthropology from the University of Nevada.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Myakka City Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Myakka City, Florida woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Penelope Bodry-Sanders is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Bodry-Sanders will focus her efforts on expanding the Teachers Institute for Conservation Biology, a program that helps high school teachers develop conservation ecology modules for their students. Held on the Lemur Conservation Foundation’s Florida reserve, the workshop provides knowledge, technological skills, hands-on fieldwork techniques, and cross-disciplinary curriculums (environmental art and music) that teachers can then pass on to their students. Teachers use concepts about lemur ecology and conservation as a way of challenging students to examine regional conservation issues and to become interested in biology and conservation.
Involved in conservation efforts for 25 years, Bodry-Sanders is currently the Executive Director of the Lemur Conservation Foundation. She began her career at the American Museum of Natural History in the early 1980s cutting her teeth on science and conservation as her duties morphed into several opportunities. Among others, she served as Museum archivist and then Education Coordinator for the Museum’s travel/study program. She parlayed those experiences into the creation of the Lemur Conservation Foundation in 1996. Since then, under her leadership, the Lemur Conservation Foundation has become a globally recognized environmental organization dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the primates of Madagascar through captive breeding, scientific research, education and reintroduction.
Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
“Penelope is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“The beauty and magic of the TogetherGreen program is the effect of individual leaders and projects coalescing into a huge, powerful force that can help mend and protect our planet home,” said Bodry-Sanders.
Bodry-Sanders’ career has been broad and eclectic: she was a Dominican nun, Broadway actress and recording artist, and author, best known for her biography about one of the 20th Century’s greatest conservationists, “African Obsession – the Life and Legacy of Carl E. Akeley.”She is a member of the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, a Fellow of the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographic Society in London, and is a frequent lecturer on conservation issues in the United States, Africa, and India.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Livermore Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Livermore, California man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Lewis Reed is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Reed will focus his efforts on leading a cooperative effort between the Livermore Park District and community volunteers to reduce invasive exotic weeds and establish native vegetation in the grasslands of the Livermore valley. The all-volunteer group will have the opportunity for additional mentoring and training through interpretive seminars and educational field trips led by Reed, empowering them to have a direct impact in improving environmental health. Not only will the group be protecting native habitat, making it a better place for wildlife, but they will also be gaining valuable knowledge and experience in stewardship of their land.
Involved in conservation efforts for a decade, Reed is currently a Park Ranger for the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District. As a student mentor, he helps high school and undergraduate students from underrepresented communities identify their own career goals and learn how to get involved in careers in ecology and environmental science – encouraging others to pursue education as a means of self-empowerment.
“Lewis is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I hope that this project will help raise awareness and build appreciation for this increasingly rare piece of our natural heritage,” said Reed. “Most of the undeveloped land around Livermore is grassland and in large part people don’t realize that even if we never set foot on that land, we interact with it. These grassy hills provide forage for livestock, sequester carbon and nitrogen emissions from our automobiles, cleanse water that fills our reservoirs, and host about 90% of California’s rare and endangered species. This TogetherGreen project is an opportunity to learn about our grasslands and to participate in restoration of these native habitats.”
Reed has been affiliated with the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District since 1998. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Reed is working towards his Masters degree in plant biology from Southern Illinois University, and has received a Bachelors degree in environmental studies from San Jose State University. A dedicated researcher, Reed has been awarded numerous scientific grants from organizations including the British Ecological Society and the Illinois State Academy of Science.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Snohomish Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Snohomish County, Washington woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Kristin Kelly is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For her fellowship, Kelly will focus her efforts on educating and empowering citizens to become voices for environmental protection, like policies that promote sustainable urban communities while protecting rural and resource lands to the area and policies thatwill protect Snohomish County’s critical areas, shorelines and Puget Sound. By continuing to build coalitions of community partners for good growth management policies, Kelly hopes to guide local residents and decision makers away from irresponsible development and toward better protection of their critical ecosystems, their shorelines, and their quality of life – balancing the ecological and economic value of the land.
Involved in coalition building efforts for more than a decade, Kelly is currently the Smart Growth Director for the Pilchuck Audubon Society. In her current position, she has organized two coalitions: the Land Protection Coalition, and the Livable Snohomish County Coalition, the latter one comprising about 200 neighborhood groups and individuals. Through her leadership, these groups have managed to influence decision makers to adopt strong critical areas regulations for all 20 cities in Snohomish County; prevent unnecessary overdevelopment of the rural areas, and better protect the farm and forest land in the county.
“Kristin is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I feel very honored and humbled in receiving this award from Toyota and Audubon, that they see my work here in Snohomish County as an important contribution to the sustainability and health of our world. I have met some very incredible and inspiring people during the training I received as part of this Leadership Award, and I will do my best to fulfill some of my work goals for the environment and the people of Snohomish County,” said Kelly. “While growth and development has truly changed our county’s landscape and neighborhoods, there is still lots we can do as a community to make our urban communities better and still protect our valuable rural and resource lands, something I know all Snohomish County residents hold dear. It will be my privilege to keep working with folks for that outcome.”
Kelly has been affiliated with the Pilchuck Audubon Society since 2005. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Kelly received a Bachelors degree in natural resource communications from Humboldt State University. In addition to her current position with Pilchuck Audubon, she serves as Snohomish/Skagit Pprogram Director for Futurewise, a statewide public interest group working to promote healthy communities and cities while protecting farmland, forests and shorelines today and for future generations.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of TogetherGreen fellows can be found online at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Gainesville Woman Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: A Gainesville, Florida woman is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
Jennifer Seitz is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
Seitz will focus her efforts on working with community members in a predominantly black Gainesville neighborhood that enjoys significantly fewer green spaces and tree cover than the rest of the city. Through her project, she’ll talk with residents to find out what kinds of green spaces they’d like to have and then work with them to determine how best to create and maintain them. Seitz feels passionately that all Gainesville residents should be able to enjoy the benefits of tree cover and vegetation in their neighborhoods – shade, air purification, beauty, and more.
Involved in conservation efforts for a decade, Seitz is currently an Urban Forestry Extension Associate and the State Coordinator of Project Learning Tree at the University of Florida , where she helps Florida citizens statewide learn about urban forest ecosystems and natural resource conservation through outreach and engaging educational materials.
“Jennifer is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“I am thrilled to be part of this amazing network of Fellows,” said Seitz. “I look forward to the opportunity to work with residents in Gainesville to better understand how I can help them create healthy greenspaces in their neighborhood.”
Seitz has been affiliated with the School of Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida since 2004. Half of the TogetherGreen fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Seitz received a Masters degree in education from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelors degree in wildlife ecology and conservation from University of Florida. In addition to her duties for Project Learning Tree, Seitz serves as the President-Elect of the League of Environmental Educators in Florida and the Urban Forestry Extension Associate at the University of Florida.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
Burlington Man Singled Out for Environmental Leadership
Honoree Receives Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship
New York, NY: - A Burlington, Vermont man is the recipient of a new national fellowship designed to advance the work of individuals with outstanding potential to help shape a brighter environmental future.
James Barnes is one of only 40 people selected from competitors nationwide for the TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program, part of a new conservation initiative of the National Audubon Society with support from Toyota. Fellows receive specialized training in conservation planning and execution, the chance to work and share best practices with gifted conservation professionals, and assistance with project outreach and evaluation. Each Fellow will also receive $10,000 towards a community-focused project to engage local residents in conserving land, water and energy, and contributing to greater environmental health.
For his fellowship, Barnes will focus his efforts on expanding his successful Land Stewardship Program (LANDS) at the University of Vermont. The LANDS program provides college students with paid opportunities to assist land management groups like Green Mountain Club, The Nature Conservancy, and the VT Agency of Natural Resources, and along the way, gain valuable, hands-on experiences while working under the guidance of a mentor. Students create maps, inventory rare species, and design curriculum for elementary children, just to name a few stewardship projects. Conservation groups in turn receive quality, low cost service. The LANDS program was created and piloted by Barnes as part of his Master’s research in partnership with the University of Vermont and The Student Conservation Association.
Barnes has demonstrated a commitment to environmental leadership—and to fostering those leadership skills in others, namely college students. Before LANDS, he volunteered internationally, and worked as a biology research technician in North Carolina and as an environmental restoration crew member with the Nevada Conservation Corps.
“James is the kind of person who can make a real difference in the health of our environment and the quality of our future,” said Audubon President John Flicker. “Each of our TogetherGreen Fellows demonstrates exceptional environmental understanding and commitment, combined with tremendous potential to inspire and lead others. Together, they represent the talented and diverse leadership the environmental community will need to tackle the huge challenges and opportunities confronting us now and in the years to come.”
“The challenges we face today require a new call to service, much like the New Deal and the Civilian Conservation Corps,” said Barnes. “What I’m working to create is a new kind of corps that provides college students with hands-on, affordable education, and land agencies with much needed help. Vermont is perhaps the best place in the nation to develop this idea.”
Barnes has been affiliated with UVM and LANDS since 2006. Half of the TogetherGreen Fellows come from within Audubon’s far-reaching national network; half channel their environmental efforts through other organizations.
Barnes received a Masters degree from the University of Vermont’s Field Naturalist program. He was valedictorian at North Carolina State University, where he graduated with a double degree in biology and psychology.
“Toyota believes in the power of grassroots efforts to develop the environmental leaders of tomorrow,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Group Vice President, Toyota Motor North America. “These 40 TogetherGreen Fellows will receive invaluable training for the future while immediately making a difference today with on-the-ground community projects.”
A complete list of the 2008 TogetherGreen fellows can be found at www.TogetherGreen.org/fellows.
<>
