Press Release: New Committee Leads Effort to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Along the National Trails System

New Committee Leads Effort to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Along the National Trails System

Partnership for the National Trails System announces Inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee

 

Contact: Ashley Wheeler, Partnership for the National Trails System Communication Coordinator, communication@pnts.org


WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 13, 2022 – The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) is pleased to announce an important step toward increased diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its work and the broader National Trails community through the implementation of a DEI Committee. The inaugural members were selected and began their work in mid-July to foster an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible culture within PNTS and throughout the National Trails System.

“Four years ago, it was a small working group, then a subcommittee, and now I am extremely pleased that we have a Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee to help guide the Partnership in this important work,” said PNTS Board President Barney Scout Mann.

The committee is composed of twelve members from across the country who will each bring significant professional and personal experience to their work. PNTS is pleased to announce the exceptional group includes:

  • Callum Cintron –  Human-Wildlife Conflict Prevention Intern, Felidae Conservation Fund; and Student, Oregon State University
  • Ambika Rajyagor – Founder, Digital Creator, and Activist | Ganges Gal and DisablednOutdoors
  • Kristin Murphy – Board Member, Partnership for the National Trails System
  • Amelia Winger-Bearskin – Banks Preeminence Chair Associate Professor of AI and the Arts and Founder of the AI Climate Justice Lab at Digital Worlds Institute, University of Florida
  • Marcela Maldonado – Preserve Stewardship Manager, The Nature Conservancy
  • Maggie Roju – Founder, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Leader, Black Augment LLC
  • Sonia Rangel – Senior External Affairs Manager at the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency
  • Edward Stoker – Independent Consultant, Multicultural Communications Marketing
  • Lucila Fernandez – Principal Park Naturalist, Maryland-National Capital Park & Panning Commission
  • Marcia Fairweather – President, Fresco Enterprises, providing outdoor programs through Fresco Adventures
  • Julie Judkins – Co-Founder, Just-Trails | Consultant
  • Tony Richardson – Senior Manager, JEDI Initiatives, The Rock Creek Conservancy; and Board Member, Partnership for the National Trail System

Because PNTS is the only nation-wide nonprofit dedicated to protecting, promoting, and preserving America’s National Scenic and Historic Trails, we recognize the importance of taking a leadership role in making these significant sources of nature, history, and culture accessible to all. PNTS recognizes that historical injustices have resulted in significant barriers that prevent people from accessing trails and their resources. Through the guidance of the DEI Committee, PNTS looks forward to a future where people of all backgrounds feel valued, represented, and that their varied experiences on National Trails are embraced.

About PNTS

The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) connects and convenes trail organizations, Federal agencies, and trail enthusiasts to further the protection, completion, and stewardship of National Scenic and Historic Trails.

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