Building Bridges and Connecting Communities through Conservation | Blog | Nature

On Feb 22, 2023

Elaine celebrates Juneteenth with colleagues from the Wildlife Conservation Society’s BLAC employee resource group (ERG). Photo credit: Julie Larsen Maher © WCS.

As a young New Yorker growing up in the Bronx, visiting the Bronx Zoo for my annual class field trip was always a highlight of the year. The zoo provided a magical experience, where I could see animals from all over the world up close and learn about conservation. Over the years it has remained a place full of wonder as I have gone from exploring as a child to sharing these one-of-a-kind memories with my family.

More than a decade ago, I embarked on a career in civil service, working first as a coordinator for the city’s Small Business Services agency and later as Operations Manager at the Department of Youth and Community Development. It was there I developed a deep understanding of the systems and structures that govern the city and saw firsthand the inequities that exist within them.

My passion for uplifting others has taken me on a journey around the world, from exploring the Andean culture of Peru to experiencing the vibrant spirit of Cuba. However, it was relief work in Haiti following the devastating earthquake of 2010 that solidified my commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives.

WCS staff participate in a Black Birders Week birdwatching outing. Photo credit: Julie Larsen Maher © WCS.

Over the years, I have dedicated my time and energy to supporting communities in need, and these experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and cultural understanding.

In 2021, I was given the opportunity to join WCS (Wildlife Conservation Society) as Assistant Director of Education Administration. This was a dream job for me, as I had always been passionate about conservation and education.

As Assistant Director of Education Administration, I oversee an exceptional core team that plays a key role in driving sales and promotions for all of the education programs across the Wildlife Conservation Society. However, what really drew me to this position was the organization’s unwavering commitment to providing opportunities to the youth and young people in our communities.

Elaine participating in a VIP Wild Encounter with a California sea lion at the New York Aquarium’s Aquatheater. Photo credit: Julie Larsen Maher © WCS.

Whether it is through grant-funded programs or the WCS career lattice program, which provides expanded entry points and professional services to youth from low-income communities, we strive to provide equal access to quality conservation education and opportunities for all. I am aware of the transformative power that increased social capital can have on individuals, families, communities, and neighborhoods.

By providing access to cultural institutions and high-quality education programs like those offered in our parks, we can expand young people’s horizons and inspire them to achieve even greater heights, especially when they see people who look like them achieving success.

It is truly fulfilling to be part of an organization that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our youth and to be able to lead a team that is at the forefront of driving these initiatives forward.

Each day I want to be a part of work that truly matters, fostering and expanding opportunities for young people in my community, and increasing equitable opportunities for staff at WCS. As co-lead of the BLAC (Black Leadership Advancement Consortium) employee resource group, I am committed to ensuring that all employees, regardless of their background or identity, have the support and resources they need to succeed and thrive at WCS.

Wherever I go, whether it’s through my work here at WCS, in my neighborhood in the Bronx or in my travels around the world, I strive to make a positive impact on the places and people I encounter, leaving them better than before.

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