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Sharon Collinge, professor of environmental studies at CU ��«����Ƶ, also directs the Earth Leadership Program

A leading expert in the environment and sustainability at the ��«����Ƶ has been elected to lead the Ecological Society of America (ESA), which describes itself as the world’s largest community of professional ecologists. 

Sharon Collinge, a professor of environmental studies, has been elected president of the ESA’s governing board for 2022-23, the society announced today. 

The group also elected Carmen R. Cid of Eastern Connecticut State University and Jennifer Funk of the University of California, Davis, as new board members.

“I am delighted to welcome these exceptional leaders to ESA’s governing board,” said ESA President Kathleen Weathers. “Each of the new members brings valuable insight and experience that will help ESA continue to evolve in its mission in service of ecology and the ecological community.” 

In addition to her faculty position at CU ��«����Ƶ, Collinge also directs the , a program of in collaboration between CU ��«����Ƶ and the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment. 

Sharon Collinge

Previously, she was chief scientist and observatory director of the . Her interdisciplinary research, mentoring and community engagement activities focus on human-environment interactions in urban and wild landscapes, with a focus on policy and planning regarding endangered species and habitat protection in the western United States. 

As president, she will aim to ensure that ESA provides opportunities and support to ecologists in a variety of professional settings throughout their careers. She said she plan to work with ESA’s sections, chapters and leadership on activities that promote anti-racism and inclusivity within the Society.

“ESA has been my primary professional society for the past 30 years, and I am committed to providing a welcoming and meaningful professional home for all ecologists,” Collinge stated. 

“I’m excited to continue the great work of our ESA leadership and members toward enhancing opportunities and engagement with our membership throughout their careers in ecology.” 

Catherine O’Riordan, the society’s executive director, said the member-elected governing board plays an important role in setting strategic direction and serving the society’s members. 

“I’m grateful to everyone who made their voice heard in this election and to all of the candidates who were so willing to dedicate their time and effort to the society. I look forward to working with the new board members in the years ahead.”

Founded in 1915, the strives to distribute ecological knowledge and advance the understanding of life on Earth. The 9,000-member society publishes five journals and a membership bulletin and shares ecological information through policy, media outreach and education initiatives.