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Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Hear from world-changing diverse thinkers and innovators in the environmental community.
The Diverse Environmental Leaders (DEL) National Speakers Bureau represents Rock Stars of Conservation who have climbed Earth’s highest mountains and sailed her Seven Seas; leading authors, artists and scientists; policy, climate, energy and environmental justice experts; urban revitalization strategists; natural resource managers; outdoor recreation leaders and cultural ambassadors. DEL coalesces a wide range of talented and accomplished environmental professionals of color who can help shift the environmental conversation in America to become more inclusive and equitable at all levels.
SPEAKERS
OUR SPEAKERS
DEL coalesces a wide range of talented and accomplished environmental professionals of color who can help shift the environmental conversation in America to become more inclusive and equitable at all levels. Click on a speaker profile below to learn more.
Robert Stanton
As our National Parks are widely celebrated as America’s “Crown Jewels,” so is Robert “Bob” Stanton emblematic as the Crown Jewel of diverse leadership in our public lands system. Beginning as a rookie Park Ranger detailed to the Grand Teton National Park in 1962, Mr. Stanton rose to become the Director of the National Park Service; Senior Advisor to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, and Expert Member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation among numerous other positions of influence and power. Through it all he has never lost his awe for the grandeur of our public lands treasury, nor his relationship to the young Black man from Texas that he was.
Director Stanton is knowledgeable in every aspect of securing, managing, protecting and promoting our natural, cultural and historic treasures. Declaring them “America’s greatest open-air university,” he has opened the door for Americans of every racial and ethnic group to enjoy and benefit from these assets and protect them for future generations. His story is itself the greatest demonstration of the power of democracy.
He currently offers his services as consultant and lecturer in natural and cultural resource preservation, park management, and diversity, drawing upon his vast experience in the following capacities:
Appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014, he also is a former Expert Member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP). An independent federal agency, the ACHP promotes the educational, economic, and cultural values of historic preservation and advises the President and Congress on national historic preservation policy. It also influences federal activities, programs, and policies that affect historic and cultural properties. He was chairman of the ACHP’s Communications, Education, and Outreach Committee.
As Senior Advisor to the Interior Secretary from 2010-2014, Mr. Stanton served as a key senior analyst and provided executive level advice and support to the Secretary on a wide range of environmental, educational, organizational and management challenges and opportunities, and worked closely with the bureaus and offices in advancing the Secretary’s and the President’s goals for DOI. He also represented the Secretary and the Department on Presidential Policy Review Committees, Boards, and Commissions. From 2009-2010 before assuming the Senior Advisor position in the immediate Office of the Secretary, Mr. Stanton served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Program Management.
Following his 35-year career with the NPS and prior to returning to federal service in 2009, he served as an Executive Professor at Texas A&M University in the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences; Visiting Professor at Howard University in the Department of History (Public History Program); Professor of the Practice at Yale University in the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies; and as a board member and consultant to a number of national conservation organizations. From 2001-2003, he served as the International Union for Conservation and Nature Ambassador for the Fifth World Parks Congress which took place in 2003 in Durban, South Africa.
An experienced public administrator, Mr. Stanton was nominated by President Bill Clinton and was unanimously confirmed in 1997 as the 15th Director of the NPS and served as the Director until the end of the Clinton Administration. He was the first Director to undergo confirmation hearings before the U.S. Senate and the first African American to serve in this position since the NPS was established by congressional legislation in 1916. Beginning with his appointment by Interior Secretary Stewart Lee Udall in 1962 as a seasonal park ranger at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, Director Stanton has dedicated his life work to improving the preservation and management of the nation’s rich and diverse natural and cultural resources. He worked consistently to increase youth participation in conservation programs and diversity in the workforce and public programs.
He supported the establishment of new parks and programs that recognized the struggles, courage, leadership, and contributions of women and minorities in the development and collective history of the United States. He has held key management and executive positions including Park Management Assistant (National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.), Park Superintendent (National Capital Parks-East, Washington, D.C./Maryland), Park Superintendent, Virgin Islands National Park, (St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands); Deputy Regional Director, Southeast Region (Atlanta, Georgia); Deputy Regional Director, National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.); Regional Director, National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.); and in the National Office, Assistant Director for Natural Resources, Assistant Director for Park Operations, Associate Director for Park Management, and Director.
As Director of the NPS, Mr. Stanton had policy, planning, and management responsibility for the National Park System’s 384 natural, cultural, and recreational areas and partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations. The 83 million acre National Park System attracted 228 million visitors each year. He managed a workforce of 20,000 permanent, temporary, and seasonal employees and an annual budget of $2.3 billion. He was responsible for the NPS areas and offices located in 49 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Director Stanton’s bipartisan and inclusive approach to problem solving and cooperative resource stewardship earned him respect and admiration, enabling him to build effective relations with the U. S. Congress; federal, tribal, state agencies, diverse organizations, leaders, and citizens. Under his leadership and through the work of an outstanding staff, volunteers, and wide range of partners, the NPS budget increased by 28 percent, and major park preservation and visitor service programs were inaugurated. These included the Natural Resource Challenge (a major action plan for revitalizing and expanding the NPS natural resource programs); the Cultural Resource Challenge; Connecting People to Parks (education and interpretation); Public Lands Corps; Action Plan for Diversity in Workforce and Public Programs; Co-sponsorship of the Save America’s Treasures Program; Visitor Transportation Systems; Cultural Resources Diversity Intern Program; Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units Program; International Cooperative Agreements for Resource Conservation; and Restructuring of the NPS Planning, Design, and Construction Program. Major administrative and legislative initiatives were enacted throughout his tenure, including the authorization of 11 new park areas, six National Heritage Areas, and the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom and Special Resource Studies for 22 possible new areas to the National Park System.
Cited in a wide range of news media, professional, and technical publications and a frequent public speaker, Mr. Stanton has participated in major national and international conferences, including the Fifth World Parks Congress, Durban, South Africa, 2003; World Protected Areas Leadership Forum in Australia, 2002, in Spain, 2001, and in Virginia, 2000; First World Conference on Cultural Parks, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 1984; and the Second World Congress on National Parks, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, 1972. He is a co-founder of the World Protected Areas Leadership Forum.
He is active in professional and civic affairs. Current and past board and advisory council memberships include the Endangered Species Coalition; Chesapeake Conservancy; Park Institute of America; Institute for Parks at Clemson University; Rosenwald and Rosenwald Schools Park Campaign; Advisory Council of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund; National Parks Conservation Association; Environmental Law Institute; Grand Teton National Park Foundation; African American Experience Fund of the National Park Foundation (co-founder); Advisory Council of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration; Guest Services, Inc.; and the Student Conservation Association.
Director Stanton has been nationally recognized through awards and citations for outstanding public service and leadership in conservation, historic preservation, youth programs, public and government relations, and diversity in employment and public programs. Recognition includes the U.S. Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Federal Executive Service; Distinguished Service Award, U. S. Department of the Interior; Distinguished Service Award, National Council of Negro Women; Cornelius Pugsley Gold Medal, American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration; Student Conservation Association Founder’s Award; Presidential Award, Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association; Lincoln Medal, Ford’s Theatre Society; Colonel Charles Young Diversity Recognition Award, National Park Foundation; Living Legacy Award, Association for the Study of African American Life and History; Louise du Pont Crown in shield Award, National Trust for Historic Preservation; and the Murie Spirit of Conservation Award, Teton Science Schools. Two awards and one joint award have been established in his name.
Director Stanton earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Huston-Tillotson University, Austin, Texas, and did his graduate work at Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts. He has been awarded five honorary doctorate degrees: Doctor of Letters, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; Doctor of Science, Huston-Tillotson University, Austin, Texas; Doctor of Environmental Stewardship, Unity College, Unity, Maine; Doctor of Public Policy, Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Doctor of Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.
A native of Ft. Worth, Texas, Director Stanton grew up in Mosier Valley during the era of “separate but equal.” Mosier Valley is one of the oldest communities in Texas founded by African Americans shortly after the U.S. Civil War. He and his wife Janet, nee Moffatte of South Carolina, make their home in Fairfax Station, Virginia.
Areas of focus:
Natural Resource and Cultural Heritage Preservation
Public Lands Authorization and Management
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Community and Government Relations
Director Stanton is knowledgeable in every aspect of securing, managing, protecting and promoting our natural, cultural and historic treasures. Declaring them “America’s greatest open-air university,” he has opened the door for Americans of every racial and ethnic group to enjoy and benefit from these assets and protect them for future generations. His story is itself the greatest demonstration of the power of democracy.
He currently offers his services as consultant and lecturer in natural and cultural resource preservation, park management, and diversity, drawing upon his vast experience in the following capacities:
Appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014, he also is a former Expert Member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP). An independent federal agency, the ACHP promotes the educational, economic, and cultural values of historic preservation and advises the President and Congress on national historic preservation policy. It also influences federal activities, programs, and policies that affect historic and cultural properties. He was chairman of the ACHP’s Communications, Education, and Outreach Committee.
As Senior Advisor to the Interior Secretary from 2010-2014, Mr. Stanton served as a key senior analyst and provided executive level advice and support to the Secretary on a wide range of environmental, educational, organizational and management challenges and opportunities, and worked closely with the bureaus and offices in advancing the Secretary’s and the President’s goals for DOI. He also represented the Secretary and the Department on Presidential Policy Review Committees, Boards, and Commissions. From 2009-2010 before assuming the Senior Advisor position in the immediate Office of the Secretary, Mr. Stanton served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Program Management.
Following his 35-year career with the NPS and prior to returning to federal service in 2009, he served as an Executive Professor at Texas A&M University in the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences; Visiting Professor at Howard University in the Department of History (Public History Program); Professor of the Practice at Yale University in the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies; and as a board member and consultant to a number of national conservation organizations. From 2001-2003, he served as the International Union for Conservation and Nature Ambassador for the Fifth World Parks Congress which took place in 2003 in Durban, South Africa.
An experienced public administrator, Mr. Stanton was nominated by President Bill Clinton and was unanimously confirmed in 1997 as the 15th Director of the NPS and served as the Director until the end of the Clinton Administration. He was the first Director to undergo confirmation hearings before the U.S. Senate and the first African American to serve in this position since the NPS was established by congressional legislation in 1916. Beginning with his appointment by Interior Secretary Stewart Lee Udall in 1962 as a seasonal park ranger at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, Director Stanton has dedicated his life work to improving the preservation and management of the nation’s rich and diverse natural and cultural resources. He worked consistently to increase youth participation in conservation programs and diversity in the workforce and public programs.
He supported the establishment of new parks and programs that recognized the struggles, courage, leadership, and contributions of women and minorities in the development and collective history of the United States. He has held key management and executive positions including Park Management Assistant (National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.), Park Superintendent (National Capital Parks-East, Washington, D.C./Maryland), Park Superintendent, Virgin Islands National Park, (St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands); Deputy Regional Director, Southeast Region (Atlanta, Georgia); Deputy Regional Director, National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.); Regional Director, National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.); and in the National Office, Assistant Director for Natural Resources, Assistant Director for Park Operations, Associate Director for Park Management, and Director.
As Director of the NPS, Mr. Stanton had policy, planning, and management responsibility for the National Park System’s 384 natural, cultural, and recreational areas and partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations. The 83 million acre National Park System attracted 228 million visitors each year. He managed a workforce of 20,000 permanent, temporary, and seasonal employees and an annual budget of $2.3 billion. He was responsible for the NPS areas and offices located in 49 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Director Stanton’s bipartisan and inclusive approach to problem solving and cooperative resource stewardship earned him respect and admiration, enabling him to build effective relations with the U. S. Congress; federal, tribal, state agencies, diverse organizations, leaders, and citizens. Under his leadership and through the work of an outstanding staff, volunteers, and wide range of partners, the NPS budget increased by 28 percent, and major park preservation and visitor service programs were inaugurated. These included the Natural Resource Challenge (a major action plan for revitalizing and expanding the NPS natural resource programs); the Cultural Resource Challenge; Connecting People to Parks (education and interpretation); Public Lands Corps; Action Plan for Diversity in Workforce and Public Programs; Co-sponsorship of the Save America’s Treasures Program; Visitor Transportation Systems; Cultural Resources Diversity Intern Program; Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units Program; International Cooperative Agreements for Resource Conservation; and Restructuring of the NPS Planning, Design, and Construction Program. Major administrative and legislative initiatives were enacted throughout his tenure, including the authorization of 11 new park areas, six National Heritage Areas, and the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom and Special Resource Studies for 22 possible new areas to the National Park System.
Cited in a wide range of news media, professional, and technical publications and a frequent public speaker, Mr. Stanton has participated in major national and international conferences, including the Fifth World Parks Congress, Durban, South Africa, 2003; World Protected Areas Leadership Forum in Australia, 2002, in Spain, 2001, and in Virginia, 2000; First World Conference on Cultural Parks, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 1984; and the Second World Congress on National Parks, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, 1972. He is a co-founder of the World Protected Areas Leadership Forum.
He is active in professional and civic affairs. Current and past board and advisory council memberships include the Endangered Species Coalition; Chesapeake Conservancy; Park Institute of America; Institute for Parks at Clemson University; Rosenwald and Rosenwald Schools Park Campaign; Advisory Council of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund; National Parks Conservation Association; Environmental Law Institute; Grand Teton National Park Foundation; African American Experience Fund of the National Park Foundation (co-founder); Advisory Council of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration; Guest Services, Inc.; and the Student Conservation Association.
Director Stanton has been nationally recognized through awards and citations for outstanding public service and leadership in conservation, historic preservation, youth programs, public and government relations, and diversity in employment and public programs. Recognition includes the U.S. Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Federal Executive Service; Distinguished Service Award, U. S. Department of the Interior; Distinguished Service Award, National Council of Negro Women; Cornelius Pugsley Gold Medal, American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration; Student Conservation Association Founder’s Award; Presidential Award, Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association; Lincoln Medal, Ford’s Theatre Society; Colonel Charles Young Diversity Recognition Award, National Park Foundation; Living Legacy Award, Association for the Study of African American Life and History; Louise du Pont Crown in shield Award, National Trust for Historic Preservation; and the Murie Spirit of Conservation Award, Teton Science Schools. Two awards and one joint award have been established in his name.
Director Stanton earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Huston-Tillotson University, Austin, Texas, and did his graduate work at Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts. He has been awarded five honorary doctorate degrees: Doctor of Letters, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; Doctor of Science, Huston-Tillotson University, Austin, Texas; Doctor of Environmental Stewardship, Unity College, Unity, Maine; Doctor of Public Policy, Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Doctor of Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.
A native of Ft. Worth, Texas, Director Stanton grew up in Mosier Valley during the era of “separate but equal.” Mosier Valley is one of the oldest communities in Texas founded by African Americans shortly after the U.S. Civil War. He and his wife Janet, nee Moffatte of South Carolina, make their home in Fairfax Station, Virginia.
Areas of focus:
Natural Resource and Cultural Heritage Preservation
Public Lands Authorization and Management
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Community and Government Relations
Majora Carter
Majora Carter is an urban revitalization strategy consultant, real estate developer, and Peabody Award winning broadcaster. She is responsible for the creation & successful implementation of numerous green-infrastructure projects, policies, and job training & placement systems.
Majora’s field-tested experience and vision can improve workforce development strategies for corporate and government departments at the local, state and federal levels interested in diversifying their talent pipeline to maximize their return on investment towards job creation for climate adaptive land management in urban, suburban, ex-urban and rural areas. Real estate developers can gain market advantages by incorporating Majora’s sustainable economic development strategies into their projects.
After establishing Sustainable South Bronx and Green For All (among other organizations) to carry on that work, she built on this foundation with innovative ventures and insights into urban economic developments designed to help move Americans out of poverty.
Her long list of awards and honorary degrees include accolades from groups as diverse as Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation, John Podesta’s Center for American Progress, Goldman Sachs, as well as a MacArthur “genius” Fellowship. Her 2006 TED talk was one of the first 6 videos to launch their groundbreaking website. Majora is a Board Member of the US Green Building Council, and the Andrew Goodman Foundation.
Majora embodies the American Dream. She has continually set new standards of excellence with projects in her South Bronx community, while expanding her reach nationally and internationally. Her philanthropic pursuits and business interests have all pointed toward greater self-esteem and economic potential for low-income people everywhere.
Follow her on twitter at @MajoraCarter and on facebook.com/majoracarter
http://www.majoracartergroup.com
Majora’s field-tested experience and vision can improve workforce development strategies for corporate and government departments at the local, state and federal levels interested in diversifying their talent pipeline to maximize their return on investment towards job creation for climate adaptive land management in urban, suburban, ex-urban and rural areas. Real estate developers can gain market advantages by incorporating Majora’s sustainable economic development strategies into their projects.
After establishing Sustainable South Bronx and Green For All (among other organizations) to carry on that work, she built on this foundation with innovative ventures and insights into urban economic developments designed to help move Americans out of poverty.
Her long list of awards and honorary degrees include accolades from groups as diverse as Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation, John Podesta’s Center for American Progress, Goldman Sachs, as well as a MacArthur “genius” Fellowship. Her 2006 TED talk was one of the first 6 videos to launch their groundbreaking website. Majora is a Board Member of the US Green Building Council, and the Andrew Goodman Foundation.
Majora embodies the American Dream. She has continually set new standards of excellence with projects in her South Bronx community, while expanding her reach nationally and internationally. Her philanthropic pursuits and business interests have all pointed toward greater self-esteem and economic potential for low-income people everywhere.
Follow her on twitter at @MajoraCarter and on facebook.com/majoracarter
http://www.majoracartergroup.com
Tarsha Scovens
With over 20 years of leadership, programming and coordination experience, along with a passion for the outdoors, Tarsha is spearheading a movement to ethnically diversify outdoor participation. After traveling across the United States, visiting national/state parks, camping, hiking, reading outdoor-industry reports and during nature walks, she has come to see the disparity between those that “look like” her and those that don’t, who are investing in and appreciating their outdoor spaces. This disparity fuels her interest to bridge the gap and or disconnect between the two.
Tarsha holds a Masters in Professional Communication from La Salle University and a Bachelors in Liberal Studies from Virginia Wesleyan College. She has spoken locally to groups in the Philadelphia area on topics of leadership, business success and is just beginning to make her voice heard on the topic of “people of color and their limited connection to outdoor spaces.” Her hope is that as people of color increase their participation in the outdoors that they will, in turn, increase their support of outdoor spaces for the sustainability of our environment. She is currently working with Let’s Go Outdoors’ co-founder (and twin sister), Keisha Scovens, on innovative outdoor programming that isn’t just a one-time experience, but spans over one’s lifetime, with family participation, creating a true connection to the outdoors – solving the issue of people of color not “connecting” with nature and/or outdoor spaces.
Tarsha lives in Cheltenham, PA with her husband and two daughters, ages one and three. Her dynamic energy, creative spirit, likeable demeanor and drive to connect the next generation of investors in the outdoors, makes her a vital up and coming speaker to the environmental and/or outdoor community.
Tarsha holds a Masters in Professional Communication from La Salle University and a Bachelors in Liberal Studies from Virginia Wesleyan College. She has spoken locally to groups in the Philadelphia area on topics of leadership, business success and is just beginning to make her voice heard on the topic of “people of color and their limited connection to outdoor spaces.” Her hope is that as people of color increase their participation in the outdoors that they will, in turn, increase their support of outdoor spaces for the sustainability of our environment. She is currently working with Let’s Go Outdoors’ co-founder (and twin sister), Keisha Scovens, on innovative outdoor programming that isn’t just a one-time experience, but spans over one’s lifetime, with family participation, creating a true connection to the outdoors – solving the issue of people of color not “connecting” with nature and/or outdoor spaces.
Tarsha lives in Cheltenham, PA with her husband and two daughters, ages one and three. Her dynamic energy, creative spirit, likeable demeanor and drive to connect the next generation of investors in the outdoors, makes her a vital up and coming speaker to the environmental and/or outdoor community.
James Edward Mills
James Edward Mills is a National Geographic Explorer and a contributor to National Geographic Magazine, a Fellow of the Mountain &
Wilderness Writing Program of the Banff Centre in Alberta, Canada and a recipient of the Paul K. Petzoldt Award For Environmental Education.
Wilderness Writing Program of the Banff Centre in Alberta, Canada and a recipient of the Paul K. Petzoldt Award For Environmental Education.
Dorien Blythers
Dorien Paul Blythers was a student at Howard University in Washington, D.C. when he led student efforts resulting in the first university- wide recycling mandate in the institution’s 147-year history.
He joined the National Ocean’s Policy team at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) as an intern where he worked alongside former Arizona Governor and Interior Secretary, Bruce Babbitt. At EDF, Dorien laid the groundwork for a “Partnership for Environmental Leadership” with Howard University, the first initiative of its kind, and was publicly endorsed by former White House advisor, Van Jones.
In 2012, Dorien spearheaded President Obama’s reelection campaign in Riviera Beach, Florida. He continues to build at the intersection of environmental advocacy, diversity and outreach landing him opportunities with Congress, People for the American Way, The Outdoor Foundation, Sierra Club, U.S. Green Building Council and The White House.
He joined the National Ocean’s Policy team at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) as an intern where he worked alongside former Arizona Governor and Interior Secretary, Bruce Babbitt. At EDF, Dorien laid the groundwork for a “Partnership for Environmental Leadership” with Howard University, the first initiative of its kind, and was publicly endorsed by former White House advisor, Van Jones.
In 2012, Dorien spearheaded President Obama’s reelection campaign in Riviera Beach, Florida. He continues to build at the intersection of environmental advocacy, diversity and outreach landing him opportunities with Congress, People for the American Way, The Outdoor Foundation, Sierra Club, U.S. Green Building Council and The White House.
James King
Certified Architectural Drafter, James King plans to become a Sustainability Architect and an Environmental Activist. He currently demonstrates his passion for the environment by serving as the Chairman of Hiking and Outdoor Events for Keeping it Wild.
He is also a National Delegate of the Children and Nature Network, Ambassador of Outdoor Nation, National Park Service Fellow with Greening. Youth Foundation, Outreach Coordinator for Atlanta Mentorship Program for Sustainability, and is also a Youth Program Volunteer Specialist for Atlanta Watershed Alliance.
His great contributions to the environment have not gone unnoticed. In 2010, Mr. King was nominated as an Atlanta Cox Conserve Hero. He was also honored by Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) with the Community Service Award in 2011 for taking diverse families camping and providing stewardship at local, state, and national parks.
He is also a National Delegate of the Children and Nature Network, Ambassador of Outdoor Nation, National Park Service Fellow with Greening. Youth Foundation, Outreach Coordinator for Atlanta Mentorship Program for Sustainability, and is also a Youth Program Volunteer Specialist for Atlanta Watershed Alliance.
His great contributions to the environment have not gone unnoticed. In 2010, Mr. King was nominated as an Atlanta Cox Conserve Hero. He was also honored by Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) with the Community Service Award in 2011 for taking diverse families camping and providing stewardship at local, state, and national parks.
Keisha Scovens
Keisha Scovens, M.S., co-founder of Let’s Go Outdoors and nationally certified Speech and Language Pathologist has been working with children and families for 15 years. Through consulting and coordinating programming for Let’s Go Outdoors, she is inspiring people to think differently about how to engage and maintain their own – and others’ – relationships with natural landscapes. Combined with her Pennsylvania Master naturalist certification (currently pursuing), she is a role-model for the African American community.
Growing up as an “inner-city” kid, Keisha was not raised being environmentally conscious, exploring nature in positive ways, or participating in outdoor recreation beyond the street, playground or backyard. All of this came later, as she was gradually exposed to more traditionally Caucasian-based outdoor activities through Girl Scouts, summer camp, and collegiate relationships. During Keisha’s international and national travels, she was able to visit many local, state, and national parks, but always noticed the lack of diversity in visitation and employment.
Consulting and collaborating with land trust organizations, state, and local parks, as well as neighborhood locations with green spaces, Keisha is changing the mentality surrounding nature-based play and outdoor recreation among people of color. With teaching people of color how to treat and interact positively with their environment, Let’s Go Outdoors believes we’re a step closer to global sustainability and increased interest in visiting natural landscapes. By opening doors for further exploration, learning options for education, and providing leadership by outdoor professionals, more people of color may be drawn to careers associated with outdoor recreation.
Growing up as an “inner-city” kid, Keisha was not raised being environmentally conscious, exploring nature in positive ways, or participating in outdoor recreation beyond the street, playground or backyard. All of this came later, as she was gradually exposed to more traditionally Caucasian-based outdoor activities through Girl Scouts, summer camp, and collegiate relationships. During Keisha’s international and national travels, she was able to visit many local, state, and national parks, but always noticed the lack of diversity in visitation and employment.
Consulting and collaborating with land trust organizations, state, and local parks, as well as neighborhood locations with green spaces, Keisha is changing the mentality surrounding nature-based play and outdoor recreation among people of color. With teaching people of color how to treat and interact positively with their environment, Let’s Go Outdoors believes we’re a step closer to global sustainability and increased interest in visiting natural landscapes. By opening doors for further exploration, learning options for education, and providing leadership by outdoor professionals, more people of color may be drawn to careers associated with outdoor recreation.
Loan Lake
Loán Lake is a journalist, published author, and a public relations strategist who got her start in public relations on Capitol Hill. Since then, she has led communications and marketing for global non-profits, fortune 500 companies, churches, and tourist destinations.
Angelou Ezeilo
Angelou Ezeilo and her husband James are among our nation’s foremost experts in preparing young people from urban communities to become responsible environmental stewards. For close to a decade the Ezeilos’ non-profit Greening Youth Foundation has pioneered culturally-based programs that help youth make healthy lifestyle choices, including focusing on public land management agencies and the conservation sector as a source of employment and careers. Mrs. Ezeilo is an expert in the development, placement and retention of racially-diverse young people in the environmental sector. She serves on the National Park Service’s Centennial Advisory Board. Greening Youth Foundation has also been selected as one of the 21st Century Conservation Corps.
Mrs. Ezeilo’s love for the environment dates back to her childhood when she had the chance to escape the dense urban streets of Jersey City, New Jersey and spend summers in upstate New York with her family. Graduating from Spelman College in Atlanta, she pursued a Juris Doctorate in Law from the University of Florida, College of Law.
She began her career as an attorney for the New Jersey State Agriculture and Development Committee. Her environmental focus led her to a position as Project Manager for the Trust for Public Land (TPL) in its New Jersey and Georgia offices. In that capacity, she specialized in acquiring land for preservation, working on the New York/New Jersey Highlands Program; Parks for People-Newark; the New York/New Jersey Harbor Program in New Jersey; the Atlanta Beltline and the 20 County Regional Greenspace Initiative in Georgia.
Over years of immersion in this sector, Mrs. Ezeilo came to see the huge gap between the land being preserved and the paucity of efforts to engage citizens with those lands. She was particularly struck by the fact that young people were missing from the equation. This became her impetus for creating Greening Youth Foundation, providing environmental access to underserved children and young adults through its Public School Initiative and Youth Conservation Corps programs. Greening Youth provides services throughout the country and in West Africa.
Mrs. Ezeilo is widely recognized in the conservation and civil rights sectors and is part of the growing movement to connect racially diverse America with our publicly owned lands and the environment. She is a member of the National Center for Civil and Human Right’s Women in Solidarity Society and the South Fork Conservancy boards; an Advisory Board Member for the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, The Million Mile Greenway, Inc., Keeping It Wild, Inc., and Outdoor Afro.
Mrs. Ezeilo and her husband live in Atlanta with their two sons Miles and Cole and their dog, Nina.
Mrs. Ezeilo’s love for the environment dates back to her childhood when she had the chance to escape the dense urban streets of Jersey City, New Jersey and spend summers in upstate New York with her family. Graduating from Spelman College in Atlanta, she pursued a Juris Doctorate in Law from the University of Florida, College of Law.
She began her career as an attorney for the New Jersey State Agriculture and Development Committee. Her environmental focus led her to a position as Project Manager for the Trust for Public Land (TPL) in its New Jersey and Georgia offices. In that capacity, she specialized in acquiring land for preservation, working on the New York/New Jersey Highlands Program; Parks for People-Newark; the New York/New Jersey Harbor Program in New Jersey; the Atlanta Beltline and the 20 County Regional Greenspace Initiative in Georgia.
Over years of immersion in this sector, Mrs. Ezeilo came to see the huge gap between the land being preserved and the paucity of efforts to engage citizens with those lands. She was particularly struck by the fact that young people were missing from the equation. This became her impetus for creating Greening Youth Foundation, providing environmental access to underserved children and young adults through its Public School Initiative and Youth Conservation Corps programs. Greening Youth provides services throughout the country and in West Africa.
Mrs. Ezeilo is widely recognized in the conservation and civil rights sectors and is part of the growing movement to connect racially diverse America with our publicly owned lands and the environment. She is a member of the National Center for Civil and Human Right’s Women in Solidarity Society and the South Fork Conservancy boards; an Advisory Board Member for the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, The Million Mile Greenway, Inc., Keeping It Wild, Inc., and Outdoor Afro.
Mrs. Ezeilo and her husband live in Atlanta with their two sons Miles and Cole and their dog, Nina.
Dr. Carolyn Finney
Carolyn Finney, Ph.D. is a writer, performer and cultural geographer. As a professor in Environmental Science, Policy and Management at the College of Natural Resources at the University of California, Berkeley, she explores how issues of difference impact participation in decision-making processes designed to address environmental issues.
Although Carolyn pursed an acting career for eleven years, a backpacking trip around the world, a solo trip through East Africa, and living in Nepal changed the course of her life. Motivated by these experiences, she returned to school after a 15-year absence to complete a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. While working on her PhD at Clark University, Dr. Finney won both a Fulbright and Canon National Parks Science Scholar Fellowship.
Although Carolyn pursed an acting career for eleven years, a backpacking trip around the world, a solo trip through East Africa, and living in Nepal changed the course of her life. Motivated by these experiences, she returned to school after a 15-year absence to complete a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. While working on her PhD at Clark University, Dr. Finney won both a Fulbright and Canon National Parks Science Scholar Fellowship.
Stefan Moss
Stefan Moss is an environmental scientist and educator. As a scientist, he has worked in the public sector on UN-related projects in the Caribbean including the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.
Carolyn Hartfield
Carolyn Hartfield is a self-styled late bloomer, baby boomer who is seasoned and savoring in the spices of life! She teaches others to live their life to the fullest, through outreach and engagement in lively and fun outdoor activities. The activities include, but not limited to; hiking, bicycling, camping, zip lining, kayaking, spelunking, hang gliding, traveling, sailing, and much more.
All of this enjoyment while nourishing the mind, body and spirit in a natural and pure way, resulting in clarity of mind, improved physical fitness, and oneness with nature.
All of this enjoyment while nourishing the mind, body and spirit in a natural and pure way, resulting in clarity of mind, improved physical fitness, and oneness with nature.
Irela Bague
Irela Bagué is an experienced bilingual (Spanish and English) public affairs consultant and Principal for The Bagué Group, a full service consulting firm with more than 20 years of experience in Florida representing business development, public infrastructure, water and waste water resources, natural systems restoration, sustainable “green” initiatives, public involvement services, market research and government affairs.
In 2003, Irela was appointed to the South Florida Water Management District Board by Governor Jeb Bush, where she held the position of Board Vice-Chair until April 2007. She was responsible for spearheading policies in the areas of water resources development and regulation, flood control, water quality protection and natural systems restoration primarily with a focus on the restoration of America’s Everglades.
As a former state-appointed official, Irela has earned the respect of clients and policy makers alike. She is known for her in-depth understanding of the political process and for her critical insight and clear and straightforward communications style making her a credible and engaging spokesperson.
Irela has been an advocate of natural systems restoration, water resources and diversity in the environment having provided key testimony on behalf of the State of Florida to the United States House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Water & Power. She served as Chair of the Miami River Commission and was instrumental in gaining public support for the multi-million dollar dredging project to deepen the channel for larger vessels to help increase Miami’s marine and shipping economy.
Her career highlights include working for National Audubon Society’s Florida State Office as the State’s Public Affairs Coordinator managing outreach campaigns to promote support for Everglades restoration.
Irela currently serves on the National Parks Conservation Association’s Regional Council and Chairs the Sustainability, Environment & Energy Committee of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. She is a frequent contributor to The Miami Herald and is often featured in both Spanish and English-language broadcast media throughout South Florida.
In 2003, Irela was appointed to the South Florida Water Management District Board by Governor Jeb Bush, where she held the position of Board Vice-Chair until April 2007. She was responsible for spearheading policies in the areas of water resources development and regulation, flood control, water quality protection and natural systems restoration primarily with a focus on the restoration of America’s Everglades.
As a former state-appointed official, Irela has earned the respect of clients and policy makers alike. She is known for her in-depth understanding of the political process and for her critical insight and clear and straightforward communications style making her a credible and engaging spokesperson.
Irela has been an advocate of natural systems restoration, water resources and diversity in the environment having provided key testimony on behalf of the State of Florida to the United States House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Water & Power. She served as Chair of the Miami River Commission and was instrumental in gaining public support for the multi-million dollar dredging project to deepen the channel for larger vessels to help increase Miami’s marine and shipping economy.
Her career highlights include working for National Audubon Society’s Florida State Office as the State’s Public Affairs Coordinator managing outreach campaigns to promote support for Everglades restoration.
Irela currently serves on the National Parks Conservation Association’s Regional Council and Chairs the Sustainability, Environment & Energy Committee of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. She is a frequent contributor to The Miami Herald and is often featured in both Spanish and English-language broadcast media throughout South Florida.
Evonne Blythers
Evonne Blythers is the Director of the Edge of Night Camping Club (ENCC) and Environmental Education Coordinator for the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance where she helps youth experience nature at the Atlanta Outdoor Activity Center. As Founder and Director of ENCC she has been a very strong advocate in getting families outdoors. Evonne formed Edge of Night in 1994 after returning from a family camping trip and realizing the family had broken all the rules of the campground. Edge of Night has been featured in an episode of Georgia Outdoors and participates annually in the Great American Backyard
Campout.
In 2009, Evonne was a finalist for the Cox Conserves Heroes and a nominee for East Metro Atlanta Citizen of the Year. An administrative assistant by profession, she has worked for Zoo Atlanta and Georgia Aquarium, and serves on the board of the Keeping It Wild Program since 2006. Evonne has visited all of the 65 Georgia State Parks and Historic sites and has been a Girl Scout Leader since 2001.
Campout.
In 2009, Evonne was a finalist for the Cox Conserves Heroes and a nominee for East Metro Atlanta Citizen of the Year. An administrative assistant by profession, she has worked for Zoo Atlanta and Georgia Aquarium, and serves on the board of the Keeping It Wild Program since 2006. Evonne has visited all of the 65 Georgia State Parks and Historic sites and has been a Girl Scout Leader since 2001.
Krishel Augustine
Krishel Augustine, “Miss Teen Navajo 2013-14,” is an ambassador and role model for other young people in her Navajo culture and in the wider world. With Navajo being her first language, the millennial leader easily bridges the gap between her Native Nation and the general public. A singer and songwriter, she uses her talents to augment her presentations and is featured on the National Park Service “Songs for Junior Rangers” CD.
Krishel represents a voice seldom heard in urban areas – Native, millennial, knowledgeable and engaged with national parks. Krischel spent hundreds of volunteer hours working in the areas of interpretation, resource management and fee management at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, AZ. She currently resides in the splendor of Grand Canyon.
Krishel represents a voice seldom heard in urban areas – Native, millennial, knowledgeable and engaged with national parks. Krischel spent hundreds of volunteer hours working in the areas of interpretation, resource management and fee management at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, AZ. She currently resides in the splendor of Grand Canyon.
Stacey Evans
Attorney Stacey Evans is a recognized animal welfare leader and expert in policy issues impacting animal health, the human-canine bond, and the conservation and management of canine wildlife. Her advocacy has helped pass laws that reduce animal cruelty, help prevent pet overpopulation, protect pets and working dogs from domestic violence, prohibit people convicted of animal cruelty from owning or possessing animals and improve protection of canine wildlife.
An adventurer who has driven dog teams of Alaskan huskies, Siberian huskies, Canadian Eskimo dogs, and other types of sled dogs in the U.S. and Canada, she enjoys the outdoors snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and raising her American Eskimo rescue dog.
Attorney Evans’ dedication to the welfare of animals is reflected in the fact that she represents those interests on the United States Department of Agriculture Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Animal Health; is a representative of Project Coyote; a board member of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, and a Vice-Chair of the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section’s Animal Law Committee. Prior to those roles, Stacey chaired the Maryland State Bar Association Animal Law Section.
She has extensive experience educating organizations, legislators, and audiences about laws, legislation, policy, and issues impacting animals in the United States and beyond. She is a frequent speaker at animal law and policy related conferences such as the No More Homeless Pets Conference, classes, and special events including the U.S. Police Canine Association, Region 3 awards banquet. She is a frequent contributor to radio and television shows discussing animal law, legislation, and policy related issues.
The founder and CEO of Humane Strategies Benefit LLC – a business empowering nonprofits, scientists, and veterinarians to advocate effectively to promote animal health, the human-canine bond, and sound wildlife management, with a focus on dogs and wild canids – Attorney Evans graduated from George Mason University and Tulane University Law School.
An adventurer who has driven dog teams of Alaskan huskies, Siberian huskies, Canadian Eskimo dogs, and other types of sled dogs in the U.S. and Canada, she enjoys the outdoors snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and raising her American Eskimo rescue dog.
Attorney Evans’ dedication to the welfare of animals is reflected in the fact that she represents those interests on the United States Department of Agriculture Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Animal Health; is a representative of Project Coyote; a board member of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, and a Vice-Chair of the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section’s Animal Law Committee. Prior to those roles, Stacey chaired the Maryland State Bar Association Animal Law Section.
She has extensive experience educating organizations, legislators, and audiences about laws, legislation, policy, and issues impacting animals in the United States and beyond. She is a frequent speaker at animal law and policy related conferences such as the No More Homeless Pets Conference, classes, and special events including the U.S. Police Canine Association, Region 3 awards banquet. She is a frequent contributor to radio and television shows discussing animal law, legislation, and policy related issues.
The founder and CEO of Humane Strategies Benefit LLC – a business empowering nonprofits, scientists, and veterinarians to advocate effectively to promote animal health, the human-canine bond, and sound wildlife management, with a focus on dogs and wild canids – Attorney Evans graduated from George Mason University and Tulane University Law School.
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