In this series, we'll periodically check in with former and current scholars on their experiences with the Scholars for Conservation Leadership Program, as well as what's next for them in their careers.
Though we had all hoped to gather in person in Cleveland for Rally 2021, the decision to meet virtually again this year was the right one for the health and safety of our community. Moreover, last year’s first virtual Rally was such a success — with the largest number of attendees in Rally history — that we knew we could offer a compelling experience again. As Land Trust Alliance board Chair Jamey French said in his welcome speech, “The essence of Rally — comradery, education and celebration — is something that we can still enjoy in this virtual format.”
“Rally is an enormous gift in these dire times,” said Carolyn Edelmann, community relations associate of the accredited D&R Greenway Land Trust in New Jersey. “Rally gives us hours, even days, of cooperation with courageous, devoted, original people who care about the health of our planet and devote their lives to its well-being. In other words, Rally delivers hope, as well as practical steps to realize our personal and professional missions!”