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̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Florida's Conservation Leadership Initiative (CLI) is an experiential learning program providing opportunities for undergraduate college students to immerse themselves in ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ initiatives and chapters, strengthen leadership skills, and gain an understanding of career options in the conservation field. CLI is a unique, intergenerational experience uniting ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡â€™s leaders with a diverse group of college students from across Florida. The program pairs each student with an ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ chapter leader, offering co-mentoring opportunities for ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ leaders and college students to network, share, and learn from each other. Through CLI, students are introduced to ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ conservation initiatives, and ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ leaders learn how to better engage, communicate with, and develop the next generation of leaders.

In 2019, CLI expanded from a one-day event at the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Assembly to a year-long program, offering more opportunities for students to fully immerse themselves into both their local ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ chapter and the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Florida network. Students are offered a variety of experiences across the state, both in person and through online platforms. Topics include ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Florida’s Community Science initiatives, ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ sustainability partners, hands-on restoration and conservation projects, advocacy, and more.

A Welcoming Space for Everyone

Striving to create a growth-oriented environment, CLI is designed to be welcoming, equitable, and accessible for everyone.  We believe the diversity of ideas and approaches influenced by our different lived experiences is critical for the future of ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡. As such, applicants from underrepresented groups in conservation and other natural resources fields are strongly encouraged to apply.

2024-2025 Student Cohort Sponsors