Her Story
Raised in the Pacific Northwest, Jackie developed an affinity for nature that, when merged with diverse perspectives she pursued broadly, shaped her understanding of conservation’s dual purposes: protecting biodiversity and strengthening human well-being. This interdependency between nature and people continues to drive her work and passions.
Jackie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Franklin University Switzerland, completed a Master’s Certificate in Wildlife Management at Oregon State University, and continued a Master’s in Wildlife Science on measuring and predicting tolerance for wildlife in the context of human-black bear interactions. Her extensive research and field-based experiences span various regions, including the United States, Malaysia, Kenya, Australia, and Panama. Notably, she led a Fulbright-funded expedition in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park (2022-2023), where she explored the sociopolitical factors influencing wildlife conservation.
She is an active member of the Explorers Club and its Pacific Northwest Chapter MI’17, the International Society for Conservation Biology Social Science Working Group, and the Conservation Social Science Partnership.
Finally, fun facts
01.
Passionate supporter of traditional basketry and textiles, never turning down the opportunity to learn from locals about their trade.
02.
Inspired by Dr. Bill Laurence’s memoir Stinging Trees and Wait-a-Whiles: Confessions of a Rainforest Biologist, lived at a research station in the Australian rainforest for six-months.
03.
Favorite English word is faffing; spending time in effectual activity.