Conservation Leadership Academy
Interested in a Conservation Career?
Conservation Leadership Academy builds leadership skills, makes a positive impact in the community and expands your mind.
WHO?
High School Sophomores and Juniors
WHAT?
Conservation Leadership Academy
WHERE?
Brandywine Zoo & Surrounding Park
WHEN?
March – August
Sessions & Topics
| March 24: Backyard Habitats |
| April 20: Water Conservation |
| May 11: Be Bird Friendly |
| June 22: DEAI in Conservation |
| July 20: Plastic Pollution |
| August 17: Human-wildlife Conflict |
Conservation Leadership Academy (CLA) targets local teens interested in conservation careers.
This program centers around monthly trainings, each with a different conservation theme, such as backyard habitats, human-wildlife conflict, water conservation, and diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity (DEAI) in conservation. Service-learning opportunities will take place on the same day as the monthly training. Throughout the six-month program, the group will engage in a community conservation project with a nearby preschool that involves renovation and installation of garden beds. There will also be themed days at the zoo in which students will be on grounds to help staff engage in conservation messaging with guests through various activities.
As acceptance is limited to ten students, we ask for a strong commitment. Applicants will be interviewed and once selected for the program, must attend 5 of 6 trainings. Plan for six (6) hours per training, including content, lunch, and service-learning. Sessions will occur at the Brandywine Zoo unless otherwise specified. Please note this program will not entail handling or prolonged encounters with animals, although if time allows, you may meet some ambassadors of the education department. The field of conservation covers a wide variety of applications and what you’ll learn during your time in CLA will help animals overall.
Earn a certificate of completion upon program conclusion.
Quotes from past participants
“This program truly changed my life. Because of the CLA, I have found easier ways to make my lifestyle more sustainable.”
“Thank you so much for organizing the program! From the PowerPoints to the speakers, I had a really enriching experience that has helped shape more of what I want my college experience and career to look like.”
“I had so much fun and wish I could do it again!”
“This was an amazing program, and the lessons I learned here will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
