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Commit to Board Excellence in 2024
Thu, Dec 14

Commit to Board Excellence in 2024

The Green Leadership Trust (GLT) is on a mission to drive change in the environmental sector by diversifying and strengthening boards of directors. In 2023, we successfully placed 15 board members in various environmental organizations, leaving a significant mark......

The Green Leadership Trust (GLT) is on a mission to drive change in the environmental sector by diversifying and strengthening boards of directors. In 2023, we successfully placed 15 board members in various environmental organizations, leaving a significant mark on the sector. Now, we're thrilled to announce our ambitious goal for 2024 - to triple that number and create an even more powerful impact.Our dedication to scaling up our board placements program stems from our commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the environmental sector. We believe that the sector should reflect the communities it serves, and our initiative is designed to make that vision a reality.Join Us in Our Mission:Are you an environmental organization looking to diversify and strengthen your board of directors? We invite you to be part of our scaling initiative and make a lasting impact in the environmental sector.Ready to embark on this journey with us? Contact us today to discuss your board placement needs - complete this form.Together, we can create a more diverse, inclusive, and impactful environmental movement. Join us in our mission to drive transformative change in 2024 and beyond.
10 Reasons to Join Boards of Directors to Drive Environmental Justice
Thu, Nov 2

10 Reasons to Join Boards of Directors to Drive Environmental Justice

Are you an environmentalist of color eager to break through the barriers of underrepresentation in the environmental sector? A racial justice advocate seeking to drive awareness of the impact on environmental injustice in our communities?  Joining a board of......

Board Talent Roster Sign-UpAre you an environmentalist of color eager to break through the barriers of underrepresentation in the environmental sector? A racial justice advocate seeking to drive awareness of the impact on environmental injustice in our communities?  Joining a board of directors is your chance to make a transformative impact and rectify historical injustices.Fight Burnout and Prioritize Wellness Across the Sector:Historically, our communities has faced the brunt of environmental harm. By joining a board, you can champion collective care and wellness initiatives to combat burnout and ensure a thriving, balanced sector.Advocate for Equitable Compensation and Inclusion:Securing a seat at the table empowers you to champion representation, access, and equitable compensation, rectifying past inequities and ensuring a more inclusive and just sector.Access to GLT's Membership Community:By joining a board, you gain entry into the Green Leadership Trust (GLT) community, home to 230+ brilliant environmentalists of color. It's a dynamic network where you can build relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate with passionate peers.Drive Systemic Change with Innovative Ideas:Board service gives you the platform to drive systemic change and push the sector towards innovative solutions that are key to achieving environmental justice.Empower Your Voice:Claim your seat on a board and amplify your voice, advocating for marginalized communities, issues, and solutions in the environmental sector.Embrace Collaboration:Boards offer a unique opportunity for collaboration, allowing you to learn from your peers and gain insights from a variety of environmental fields.Personal Growth and Leadership Development:Serving on a board isn't just about giving; it's about growth. You'll develop leadership and management skills that can turbocharge your environmental career.Impact Policy:As a board member, you can help shape policies that drive real change and steer the environmental movement toward a brighter, more sustainable future.Expand Your Network:Forge connections with like-minded individuals and become part of an active network of change-makers and leaders in the environmental, conservation, and climate movement.Accelerate Transformative Change:Become a catalyst for powerful change, pushing the sector closer to a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future. Your energy and passion are the driving forces we need!Joining a board of directors offers you an exhilarating journey to drive environmental justice and make an impact on an unprecedented scale. It's your chance to lead change and leave a lasting legacy. So, why wait? Seize the opportunity to make a difference today!Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Sign up for the GLT Board Talent Roster: Board Talent Roster Sign-Up
Best Practices Presentations
Wed, Sep 6

Best Practices Presentations

Within three decades, the majority of the U.S. population will be people of color, and in most of the geographies from which our movement’s constituents and political power is drawn, this is already the case. Board members of color......

Within three decades, the majority of the U.S. population will be people of color, and in most of the geographies from which our movement’s constituents and political power is drawn, this is already the case. Board members of color and indigenous board members from across our movement have come together to address this opportunity proactively and from a sectoral perspective. Tactically, GLT started by looking within and presenting a list of best practices for boards and senior leadership from which our organizations and our sector can draw to meet this challenge and build a dynamic, powerful, and just environmental movement. These presentations are provided by GLT members to organizations that seek our support in shifting board culture to meet the demands of our quickly shifting landscape in the face ever increasing of environmental crises.To request a presentation on best practices for boards in the environmental sector, click here to complete the form.
Celebrating Kent Salazar!
Mon, Jul 10

Celebrating Kent Salazar!

We at  the Green Leadership Trust are honored to celebrate one of our co-founders - Kent Salazar!Kent Salazar is a remarkable individual whose passion for public lands and dedication to conservation has made a profound impact on the diverse......

We at the Green Leadership Trust are honored to celebrate one of our co-founders - Kent Salazar!Kent Salazar is a remarkable individual whose passion for public lands and dedication to conservation has made a profound impact on the diverse and cultural communities he serves. Born and raised amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest, Salazar developed an innate connection to nature and a profound appreciation for the beauty and importance of our natural heritage.From an early age, Salazar understood that the stewardship of public lands was not only crucial for preserving the environment but also for ensuring the well-being and prosperity of future generations. This understanding fueled his drive to make a difference, leading him on a path of advocacy and action.With unwavering commitment and a tireless work ethic and pairing passion with pragmatism, Salazar has become a trusted leader in the field of conservation. He has spent countless hours collaborating with local communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to protect and restore fragile ecosystems, promote sustainable land management practices, and advocate for responsible outdoor recreation. Kent is one of the many who came together to make Green Leadership Trust who we are today.Salazar's dedication to conservation has not gone unnoticed. Senator Martin Heinrich, a champion for environmental causes, recognized Salazar's exemplary efforts and honored him with a distinguished award. The honor bestowed upon Salazar by Senator Heinrich is a testament to his unwavering commitment and the tangible impact he has made in safeguarding public lands and preserving the natural beauty of our nation.Beyond his accolades, what truly sets Salazar apart is his ability to inspire others to join his cause. Through his leadership and infectious enthusiasm, he has mobilized countless individuals, young and old, to take an active role in protecting the environment. Salazar firmly believes that everyone has a stake in the preservation of our public lands, and his efforts have ignited a sense of responsibility and stewardship in communities across the country.Salazar's impact extends far beyond his immediate surroundings. He has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of diverse voices in the conservation movement, recognizing the importance of ensuring equal access to and representation in our public lands. His tireless work to foster inclusivity and promote environmental justice has been instrumental in reshaping the conservation landscape.  Kent’s vision and values also helped create and remains a beacon for  the Green Leadership Trust.  From the inaugural visioning meetings with a handful of environmentalists of color on boards of Big Green organizations,  to our last GLT  annual retreat during Climate Week NY, Kent’s steadfast leadership and infectious love of nature infused joy and fellowship as cornerstones of our work.As we look to the future, Kent Salazar's unwavering commitment to public lands and conservation serves as an inspiration to us all. His relentless pursuit of a sustainable and equitable future continues to drive positive change, reminding us of the profound impact that one dedicated individual can make. Through his actions, Salazar demonstrates that our collective efforts can preserve our natural treasures and create a world where both people and the environment can thrive.In honoring Kent Salazar's achievements, we acknowledge the critical importance of public lands and the urgent need for their preservation. His story serves as a reminder that we each have the power to make a difference, and that by working together, we can protect our planet - and the people who steward it - for generations to come.[embed]https://youtu.be/hkVNZeep2O8[/embed]
Welcoming GLT’s Own Paco Ollervides!
Thu, Mar 30

Welcoming GLT’s Own Paco Ollervides!

We, at the Green Leadership Trust, are on a path of solidifying our organizational development. As we enter our tenth year, we recognize that the pace of climate change and the pervasive nature of racial injustice in the environmental......

We, at the Green Leadership Trust, are on a path of solidifying our organizational development. As we enter our tenth year, we recognize that the pace of climate change and the pervasive nature of racial injustice in the environmental sector demand unprecedented action.We are happy to announce the return of Francisco “Paco” Ollervides, GLT’s first Executive Director, into the pivotal role of GLT’s inaugural Membership Director. Paco brings institutional memory, familiarity with the network’s members and steadfast dedication to the mission of GLT.Get a glimpse of Paco’s genius:Francisco Ollervides is better known as “Paco,” a common nickname in Mexico where he was born and raised. For over 21 years, Paco has worked in the nonprofit world, specifically developing leadership, and building capacity of individuals in environmental and conservation organizations in the USA and throughout Latin America. He served as the first Executive Director for Green Leadership Trust and was most recently Ocean Conservancy’s Director of Ocean Climate Justice. He previously worked for River Network as leadership development manager helping leaders in the Great Lakes region think and act strategically, equitably, and inclusively by improving their efficiency and efficacy. Paco served as Senior Field Coordinator with the Waterkeeper Alliance advising nonprofits in Latin America. He has also served as Director of the School for Field Studies (Center for Coastal Studies) in San Carlos, Mexico.He has been a resident lecturer and adviser in the areas of Economic and Ethical Issues in Sustainable Development, Coastal Ecology, and Resource Ecology and Management (Boston University). Paco’s main interest is marine conservation and strengthening individuals to ensure organizations’ continuity and success in the areas of strategic planning, fundraising, board development, and succession planning. He has participated in and presented at numerous professional and academic conferences, both in the U.S. and internationally. Paco is a biochemical engineer and marine bio-acoustician by training. Paco holds both M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from the Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Department at Texas A&M University. Paco is based near Columbus, Ohio. In his free time, he likes to go on long walks in the woods with his entire family, travel, and savor local cuisine and history.Our powerhouse leadership team, Managing Director Dany Sigwalt and Membership Director Paco Ollervides, brings 3 experienced executives with extensive board expertise and network weaving skills to complement GLT’s visionary steering committee.Together we are expanding our marquee programs like the Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Leadership, GLT’s onboarding and orientation program for new board members; deepening our engagement with indigenous leaders and young people on environmental boards; and maximizing our impact on a sector that has for far too long marginalized Black, Brown and Indigenous leadership.Please join us in welcoming Paco back at this pivotal time.In Solidarity,Emira
2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows Announced
Fri, Mar 10

2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows Announced

Green Leadership Trust Announces 2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows Washington, DC — The Green Leadership Trust (GLT), an influential network of Black, Indigenous and people of color who serve as fiduciaries for environmental organizations and foundations, has announced its......

Green Leadership Trust Announces 2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard FellowsWashington, DC — The Green Leadership Trust (GLT), an influential network of Black, Indigenous and people of color who serve as fiduciaries for environmental organizations and foundations, has announced its 2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows. This will be the second cohort of fellows of the development program aimed at imparting shared knowledge and valuable lessons to the next generation of environmental and conservation leaders of color. Established in 2021 in honor of the late GLT member and environmental justice giant Cecil Corbin-Mark, the Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellowship is a peer-to-peer learning program that is an immersive introduction to the challenges and opportunities of board service. Topics that will be covered during the 5 months of the fellowship include: myths and realities of board service, centering equity on boards, addressing conflict, maintaining work life balance, assessing board culture, and understanding fiduciary responsibilities. Fellows will be paired with veteran board members, many of whom are trailblazers within the environmental justice space, to enhance their experience by leveraging their expertise. Upon graduation of the fellowship, fellows will join a cadre of Vanguard alumni, be able to apply a new set of critical governance skills to the boards they sit on and strengthen GLT’s collective work to strengthen the power of the environmental movement nationally. This year’s thirteen 2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows include: Alexandra Grayson (Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Powershift), Anthony Pegues, Clara Fang (Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences), Dalia Dorta Gonzalez (National Parks Conservation Association), Dara M. Wilson (Friends of Wakulla Springs), E. Guilu Murphy (Youth on Root), Erica Nuñez (​​Marine Debris Foundation), Huda Alkaff (Milwaukee Environmental Consortium), Joyce Woodson (Alfred Street Baptist Church), Katherine Hasnain (Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences), Maya Kipp-Whalen (BioGals), Russell Armstrong (Washington College of Law’s Program on Energy and Environmental Law), and Teri Brezner (Training Resources for the Environmental Community). Erica Nuñez is currently on the board of the Marine Debris Foundation and is joining the fellowship to gain more knowledge on how to be an effective board member. Russell Armstrong is currently on the board of the American University Washington College of Law’s Program on Energy and Environmental Law and hopes to find ways to better advocate on the board he sits on. Teri Brezner sits on the board of Training Resources for the Environmental Community and is looking forward to developing a lasting relationship with her mentor while learning more about how to make the most out of being on a board. Some of mentors for this year’s cohort include: Ramon Cruz, the President of Sierra Club, Co-Chair of the Power Shift Network Board of Directors, Michél Legendre, and GLT Steering Committee members Pallavi Phartiyal (Oil Change International and American Rivers) and Ayako Nagano (Clean Water Fund and Transition Berkeley) “We are thrilled to be able to announce the 2023 Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellows,” stated Emira Woods, the Executive Director of GLT. “This fellowship is a pillar of GLT programming because it exemplifies in a tangible way the strengths of our collective membership. The Vanguard fellowship is a space for our veteran members to pass on their expertise to new board members in an intentional way and we know this knowledge sharing will have a deep impact in the boards we serve but also in the greater environment movement.” Francisco “Paco” Ollervides, Membership Director of GLT, shared, “It is my immense privilege to have launched the Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Fellowship in 2021 and now to help usher in the second cohort. I am confident they will help carry our dear Cecil Corbin-Mark’s legacy of environmental justice and help GLT in building a more just and sustainable world through their board service.”About the Green Leadership TrustSince 2013, the Green Leadership Trust (GLT) has worked to build power for the environmental movement by diversifying its most senior leadership. Together, we are building a more just and sustainable world. For more information, visit www.greenleaddev.wpenginepowered.com.