Connecting with the next generation of conservation leaders

Audubon Florida's Conservation Leadership Initiative (CLI) is an experiential learning program providing opportunities for undergraduate college students to immerse themselves in Audubon initiatives and chapters, strengthen leadership skills, and gain an understanding of career options in the conservation field. CLI is a unique, intergenerational experience uniting Audubon’s leaders with a diverse group of college students from across Florida. The program pairs each student with an Audubon chapter leader, offering co-mentoring opportunities for Audubon leaders and college students to network, share, and learn from each other. Through CLI, students are introduced to Audubon conservation initiatives, and Audubon leaders learn how to better engage, communicate with, and develop the next generation of leaders.

A Year-Long, Immersive Experience

In 2019, CLI expanded from a one-day event at the Audubon Assembly to a year-long program, offering more opportunities for students to fully immerse themselves into both their local Audubon chapter and the Audubon Florida network. Students are offered a variety of experiences across the state, both in person and through online platforms. Topics include Audubon Florida’s Community Science initiatives, Audubon sustainability partners, hands-on restoration and conservation projects, advocacy, and more.

The 2024-2025 Student Cohort will commit to:

• Maintaining communication with their assigned mentor and fellow Cohort members
• Attending the Audubon Assembly in Daytona Beach, Florida from November 7 through 9, 2024
• Attending at least one local Audubon chapter board meeting
• Participating in at least five different program offerings during the school year (both virtual and in-person opportunities available)
• Complete a project in collaboration with your mentor and attend virtual project showcase

 

Participation in the Cohort is free to students, covered by our generous donors. To eliminate financial barriers to participating in the program, a small stipend will be provided to students for assistance with travel or related costs. 

Application for the 2024-2025 Cohort open on August 1 and close September 23. Click back then to see the application.

Have more questions? Click here to join us for a Zoom info session September 4th at 7pm. 

For more information about CLI, please contact Kristen Kosik at kristen.kosik@audubon.org.

“The CLI program has been an amazing opportunity to network with conservation professionals and learn about the research that goes into this work. I hope to one day use my research to support organizations like Audubon.”

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

“CLI has been such an amazing program, it's hard to properly convey how much it's done for me. But to sum it up - I have been able to step up as a leader and become a positive force in my community, reach and inspire other students that are interested in the same or similar field as me, and it has helped secure my future with internship opportunities and guidance I haven't been able to find elsewhere. CLI is a game changer when it comes to personal, academic, and career growth.”

~ Melissa Murray, Nova Southeastern University, 2022-2023 Cohort

“CLI has been a transformative gateway to the vibrant realm of conservation. The invaluable connections forged during my time here will undoubtedly shape my journey as a student and as a future conservation professional. I am not just part of a community; I am empowered to be a catalyst for change in the world!”

~ Leila Sujanani, University of South Florida, 2023-2024 Cohort