Welcoming new Switzer Foundation Trustees
This summer we welcomed two new members to the Switzer Foundation Board of Trustees! Each of our news trustees share a little about themselves and what motivated them to serve on the board below. Welcome, Dave and Maria!
Maria Martinez
What motivated you to become a Switzer Foundation trustee?
The Switzer Foundation gave me formative skills during graduate school and introduced me to incredible colleagues who opened my perspective to different realms of the environmental movement. I'm energized to help shape the foundation's efforts to support a new generation of environmental leaders and create opportunities for synergistic collaboration, learning, and community-building.
What inspires you about the Switzer Network?
The people! I absolutely love how diverse, eclectic, and interdisciplinary the Switzer Network is. It's such a gift to be connected to such an extensive network of talented, passionate experts no matter what stage of your career you're in.
What unique perspectives or experiences will you contribute to the Switzer Foundation board?
As a first-generation Latina working in clean energy innovation policy and philanthropy, I often find myself being the only woman or person of color in the spaces I engage in. It's something I'm proud of, even though it’s not always easy to navigate. I hope to bring my perspective to help create spaces where others - no matter their background - feel welcome and valued.
Dave Switzer
What motivated you to become a Switzer Foundation trustee?
My concern for the environment has been a major part of my life. Seeing the Switzer Foundation develop since the 80's has been enlightening. While volunteering as fellowship interviewer in recent years, the fellows have amazed and inspired me. I hope I can provide some help and inspiration to this noble task.
What inspires you about the Switzer Network?
This diverse and energetic group of people that sees new ways to ask and solve questions truly inspires me. There have been several times after a discussion or interview with a fellow, prospective fellow, or Switzer staff that I find myself seeing new approaches in my own work. Spending time with anyone in the Switzer Network inspires me and gives me hope.
What unique perspectives or experiences will you contribute to the Switzer Foundation board?
Working in intercultural communication and cultural history has helped me understand the value of empathy, of listening, and of looking at everyone's point of view. I believe my experience of going from a stubborn attitude of “everyone should see the answer” on environmental issues in the 80's to being someone who now seeks to understand other's viewpoints can help others. My time in education and in the private sector will also enable me to assist in the mission of the Switzer Foundation.
