GundxChange: Reimagining Global Conservation: Seeding Hope and Charting a Course

Cynthia Gill, Macmillan Scholar in Residence, Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont; Accredited Leadership and Transition Coach

Global conservation efforts were hard hit with the dismantling of US foreign assistance. The effects will be seen for generations and are amplified by other conservation and development cuts and institutional collapses globally. Over the summer, an effort was launched to map out a blueprint for a future of global conservation, exploring the opportunities of rebuilding and engaging a broad coalition to reframe and look forward to a new generation of conservation investment. In this talk, you will hear what initial steps have been taken, what the landscape looks like at this moment and what ideas and plans are on the horizon.

Cynthia is a global conservation advocate and a leadership and transition coach. She is a grounded, practical facilitator who brings her experience to making the world a better place–investing in policy and people. Cynthia built and led the conservation sector at the US Agency for International Development for 25 years, leading strategic direction and overseeing $500 million annual investment. She also led and invested in organizational and human development and wellness. She holds a Masters of Environmental Management from Duke University and is an accredited coach who coached nearly 50 clients through the turmoil of 2025.