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Ellie is currently pursuing her Masters in Environmental Studies specializing in Advocacy for Social Justice and Sustainability with a certificate in Food Justice and Resilient Communities at Antioch University, New England. With a Bachelors degree in Environmental Studies and minors in Political Science, Psychology, and Comparative Literary and Culture Studies, Ellie approaches issues of sustainable development, particularly food systems and eco-tourism from an interdisciplinary perspective. She is equally interested in the organizational sustainability of non-profits.
As CG’s Executive Project Leader in South Africa, Ellie developed and managed student courses, local youth programmes, and local community projects. She is currently based in the USA and helping frame CG’s strategic direction whilst finishing her studies.
Ellie comes from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA where she previously worked with the Affordable Housing Institute as an analyst. She graduated from Franklin University Switzerland in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and minors in Political Science, Psychology, and Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies. She was the 2014 recipient of Franklin University Switzerland’s Presidential Leadership Award. She worked as a research assistant for two years for the Swiss Network for International Studies supporting the project entitled Trends and Influences of Private Financing on Global Health Institutions.
Conservation Global provided a comprehensive and engaging travel experience for a group of seasoned travelers. My expectations were exceeded due to the organization’s ability to strike a balance between learning and fun, academics were firmly grounded as the motivation for all activities. We had access to sustainability focused thought leaders who were great privileges to learn from; many of whom were only accessible through this fantastic organization and their vast network of environmentalists. From a beautiful sunrise hike of Lion’s Head in Cape Town to spending time with the students at Tsiba college in Knysna, I would happily relive this trip in a heartbeat. I am grateful for Conservation Global and the time and energy they put in to ensure a memorable, inspiring and educational South African adventure for all involved.
My week spent on Gondwana Game Reserve with Conservation Global was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I was fortunate enough to travel to South Africa with Franklin University Switzerland on academic travel in the spring of 2015. Bonding with the staff and learning about the animals in their natural environment made for one incredible week. Each day was filled with activities and lectures that were as entertaining as they were educational. As a group we had a lecture in the morning either from a member of the knowledge staff or from a local expert. We learned about native bee populations and were treated to honey samples from the region and were given a demonstration on the practice of tagging and tracking animals on the reserve. Perhaps the most memorable was when we were taught how to properly handle a tranquilizer gun and had a competition to see who could get a bullseye! After the morning lecture, the group would split up for the safari in which the staff took great care to make sure we saw as many animals as possible. Later in the afternoon we would regroup for a drink and to admire the scenery. I have the utmost respect for Conservation Global and the work they are doing—hoping to return to South Africa soon!
