Testimonials
James O’Brien
Deschutes River Conservancy
Program Manager
Class of 2023
“Being an effective communicator is one of the most important attributes that someone can bring to the professional table, regardless of their specific career. Working in an environmental non-profit, as a member of the program’s staff, I utilize the skills I learned through the C4C program daily. From the complex nuances of communications theory that help solve stakeholder issues, to strategies for effective marketing and media relations that elevate organizational awareness, this program will prepare you for almost any task an employer will throw your way.”
Brian Cooke
ESRI
Senior Publications Editor and Writer
Class of 2023
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, I made the decision to change careers and return to my passion of science writing. As a full-time professional, CSU’s online Communications for Conservation certificate seemed like a great way for me to brush up on my writing and editing skills and augment them with classes on present-day topics such as digital media and crisis communications. Within a few months of finishing the certificate, I received job offers to work as a science writer and editor from two internationally renowned corporations and one federal agency contractor. Not only was the Communications for Conservation program interesting and informative, it provided valuable networking opportunities and gave me the confidence I needed to make a major career change.”
Emily Barbo
The Salazar Center for North American Conservation
Senior Communications Manager
Class of 2024
“The most enjoyable part of my C4C journey was building my relationship with my professor, Jamie Dahl. For an online, asynchronous program, I was not expecting Jamie to be as engaged as she was. She was fully committed to my personal success and experience with the program. Her energy and consistent encouragement was critical for my success and it’s a relationship I look forward to nurturing after graduation as well. I also had the awesome opportunity to share my experience with Prof Dahl as a guest speaker for the next iteration of the 571 New Media course – I talked a lot about social media strategy and gave a demonstration of a common social media management tool. It was really fun! “
More Featured Alumni
Marilyn Kitchell
Public Affairs Specialist
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Class of 2022
Bria Bequette
Senior Zoologist Specialist – Elephants
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
Class of 2022
Carly Quisenberry
Senior Manager, Indigenous Negotiations & Inclusive Technologies
Conservation International
Class of 2021
Parker Stewart
Policy and Project Services Analyst
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Class of 2021
Cindy Leikam
Communication and Fundraising Assistant
Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
Class of 2021
Sonny DePasquale
Senior Content Creator & Strategist – Seafood Watch
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Class of 2020
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