A leadership program for youth exploring conservation
Conservation Science Intensive (CSI) was a summer leadership program developed in 2016 to mentor, educate, and empower youth approaching college, to find their passion in the conservation field.
CSI responded to a real and urgent need—to offer young women immersive, place-based opportunities to build confidence, explore career pathways, and find community in the field of conservation.
Over the past few years, we have been doing a lot of listening and reflecting—asking ourselves a guiding question: How do we best serve our community today? Our experience and participation trends suggest that the landscape has shifted.
In early 2026, we made the decision in to sunset the CSI program. This was not an easy decision, and it comes from a place of respect for what the program has meant to so many people.
A continuing commitment to access, equity, and career pathways
This is not a step away from our commitment to access, equity, and pathways into science and conservation careers. Instead, it is a moment of transition.
Along with our foundational nature experiences for elementary school classrooms, we have broadened our educational partnerships and opportunities to include the California Naturalist certification program, a residential stewardship apprenticeship, and other place-based gatherings.
Leadership development, immersive learning, community, and joy in nature remain at the heart of our work.
Past CSI participants had this to say:
“I really enjoyed what we learned — about kelp, about the CA giant salamanders — and also just learning about everyone’s genuine love for nature. Overall, I think that we created a support system through the program.”
“I felt so welcomed coming into the program.”
“This program has and continues to change my life and empower me to aspire to new things while in tandem being my truest and most authentic self. As a peer mentor, I am inspired by the passion ignited in our youth when they step outside. It is truly magical to witness, and I am forever grateful for these experiences.”
“I would say this program provides the most incredible opportunity for young scientists. The world of science can be very scary, and it is so difficult to find resources and mentors to help guide us. This whole program is such an invaluable asset to the people it impacts. I hope this program can continue for a long, long time.”
