Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation

In 2006-2007, the Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation Board embarked on a strategic visioning process to help us reflect on the successes and lessons learned over the last 20 years, and to imagine what the next 20 years can be with a highly engaged and committed network of Fellows effecting change. To this end, we refined our mission and articulated a Vision for the Future as well as the Values that drive our programs. Finally, we developed a "Strategic Framework" that takes our Mission, Vision and Values and creates a picture of the future and suggested strategies to help us get there. We are continually refining our strategies and welcome input on our future direction from our Fellows, colleagues and friends.

Our Mission

The Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation identifies and nurtures environmental leaders who have the ability and determination to make a significant impact, and supports initiatives that will have direct and measurable results to improve environmental quality. The Foundation accomplishes this by awarding academic fellowships and project grants, sponsoring professional development activities, and fostering a growing network of Switzer Fellows, environmental practitioners, and organizations.

Our Vision

By 2026, Switzer Fellows will be recognized leaders driving positive environmental change for the benefit of natural and human communities.

Our Picture for the Future

The Switzer Fellowship Network lies at the heart of the Switzer Foundation’s programs. The Foundation has fully realized the value inherent in its Fellowship Network, mobilizing the Fellows and recognizing them as its greatest asset. The Switzer Fellowship Network is an actively engaged cadre of highly talented, committed professionals who work to effect environmental change. The Network is a highly respected resource locally, nationally and internationally for non-profit organizations, government agencies, and other entities. Bolstered by the Foundation’s long-term support, Switzer Fellows are using their expertise in natural and social sciences, business, law, and policy fields to sustain, restore, and steward our life support systems and create sustainable communities. Network members provide fundamental support, expertise, and encouragement to each other to sustain themselves for the work ahead.

Our Strategies

To accomplish our mission and carry out our vision, the Foundation awards academic fellowships and project grants, supporting a continuum of environmental leadership from graduate school through professional careers, and nurturing leaders who will be instrumental in driving environmental change.

The Foundation sponsors professional development activities, facilitates collaboration and communication among Fellows, and fosters a growing Network of Switzer Fellows, environmental practitioners and organizations.

Our Values

The Switzer Foundation operates based on the following values:

• Belief in Individuals. We believe that talented and committed individuals from varied backgrounds can make a difference in this world and create positive change.
• Environmental Stewardship. The Foundation seeks to protect, improve, and sustain our natural environment for the well-being of people and the planet.
• Sustainability and Systems Thinking. We value the concept of sustainability, recognizing the urgency of living within our ecological and physical means, and embrace holistic approaches that consider the complexity and interconnectedness of natural and human systems.
• Interdisciplinary and Innovative Problem-solving. We have a profound respect for the value of interdisciplinary and innovative environmental problem-solving.
• Maximizing Impact. We seek to maximize positive environmental impact through individual and collective activities and leveraged grant resources.
• Accountability and Results. The Foundation has an ongoing commitment to evaluation of program investments and impacts in order to promote excellence, increase effectiveness, and facilitate adaptive management.

To read the complete Strategic Framework, outlining our vision and strategies in more detail, please click on the document below.