Two years ago, I packed my bags for a women’s fly fishing retreat in the woods. I didn’t know how to fly fish—and spoiler alert, I didn’t catch a single thing all weekend. But what I found around that campfire was something far more rare and valuable: a group of brilliant, kind, and accomplished women who set aside titles and politics to talk deeply about something we all care about. It didn't feel like professional networking; it felt like being with friends.
When those new friends asked to lead the Women’s Conservation Forum as its founding Executive Director, saying yes was easy. It felt like a natural opportunity to pay forward the mentorship and care I’ve received throughout my career, pull up more chairs to the table, and build space for thoughtful conversations about caring for our lands, waters, and those in them.
The through-line of my career has been taking ambitious ideas, grounding them in strong relationships, and helping them grow into lasting institutions. My own work in conservation serving on my local farmland protection board and helping steward a 1,000-acre property in West Virginia has reinforced a simple truth: meaningful conservation takes time, but it thrives when people come to the table to communicate and build trust.
At its core, conservation isn't partisan. Our shared love for the natural world is common ground, even when we bring different perspectives to the table. My focus now is simply ensuring that everyone has a seat at that table and the support they need to lead.
At WCF, our mission is to connect conservation leaders today and prepare the leaders of tomorrow. Through our flagship DC Women in Conservation Fellowship, early-career women gain firsthand experience on the front lines of policy. Our inaugural fellow, Dr. Lillian Dinkins, has spent this year completing rotations with the Trust for Public Land, the National Audubon Society, and the American Forest Foundation, wrapping up her fellowship this January.
As I look ahead to the coming year, here is what we plan to work on:
Welcoming our next fellowship cohort: Launching our second class of fellows in January 2027 with more host partners.
Expanding community gatherings: Hosting our Winter Reception on December 9th, alongside outdoor trips, a speaker series and other events.
Strengthening governance: Transitioning into an independent nonprofit led by our founding board of conservation leaders.
Growing our network: Broadening WCF's reach to connect with more women leaders and supporters across the sector.
None of this happens alone. Everything that WCF achieves depends on the generosity, time, and spirit of supporters like you. Whether you've hosted a fellow, sponsored a gathering, joined an outing, or championed our vision from afar, thank you.
Thank you for being part of this journey so far. I can't wait to see what we accomplish together.
Julia Yuhasz, Executive Director
