Florida Projects

Conservation Leadership Initiative

Our Goals
Connecting with the next generation of conservation leaders.
What We’re Doing
³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Florida's unique co-mentoring program connects college students with ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ chapter leaders for impactful conservation efforts.
A group of people sitting on benches outside smile and look at the camera.
Students and Mentors at ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Florida’s Conservation Leadership Initiative program at the Marine Science Center during the ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Florida Assembly. Photo: Sydney Walsh/³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ

³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Florida’s Conservation Leadership Initiative (CLI) is an immersive program that connects undergraduate students with experienced ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ chapter leaders for a unique, intergenerational learning experience. Each fall, 25 students from across Florida are selected to join the program through the academic year, where they explore real-world conservation topics like habitat restoration, community science, environmental advocacy, and nonprofit leadership.

Through CLI, students gain valuable exposure to environmental careers and develop skills in leadership and collaboration. At the same time, ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ chapter leaders benefit from co-mentoring relationships that help them better engage with and support the next generation of conservation professionals. CLI strengthens both the skills of individual participants and the statewide network of ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ leaders working for birds and communities.

An Immersive Learning Experience
people in kayaks


Participants commit to:

  • Attending the ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Assembly: Oct. 16-18 in Lake County, Florida.
  • Engaging regularly with mentors and fellow CLI cohort members.
  • Taking part in at least five program offerings, which may include community science, land stewardship, career panels, and advocacy work. Some online experiences may be offered.
  • Attending at least one local ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ chapter board meeting.
  • Completing a collaborative conservation project with mentor guidance and sharing results at a virtual showcase in May 2026.

See our for more details.

For additional questions, please contact Kristen Kosik.

A Welcoming Space

CLI is designed to be welcoming and accessible for students of all backgrounds.  A diversity of ideas, perspectives, and lived experiences are essential for the future of ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, the birds, and the places they need. Students who may not yet have had access to hands-on conservation opportunities are especially encouraged to apply.

2024-25 Cohort Sponsors

Publix Super Markets

The Publix logo featuring the letter P in a green circle.

Disney Conservation Fund

The Disney Conservation Fund logo
Testimonials

³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ truly made me feel like conservation is where I belong and what I should spend my life doing.

Jason Guerrero, University of South Florida, 2024-2025 Cohort

CLI is a game changer when it comes to personal, academic, and career growth.

Melissa Murray, Nova Southeastern University, 2022-2023 Cohort

The CLI program has been an amazing opportunity to network with conservation professionals and learn about their work.

Abby Reed, University of South Florida, 2023-2024 Cohort

Stories from the Conservation Leadership Initiative
CLI Student Embarks on Indian River Lagoon Spring Break Expedition
An American Oystercatcher flies over an ocean with the sandy shore in the background.
CLI Student Embarks on Indian River Lagoon Spring Break Expedition

As a member of ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ's Conservation Leadership Initiative, I was eager to deepen my understanding of environmental conservation, but unsure of where to begin. When the opportunity to participate in the alternative spring break arose, I saw it as the perfect chance to further my knowledge.

FL
someone typing on a laptop
CLI and College Students Write for Climate Read their Op-eds and Letters to the Editor