Conservationist Paula Kahumbu appointed to Nat Geo Society board of trustees

Ash Carter, Claudia Madrazo, Deborah Lehr, and Dina Powell McCormick are among the others who have been named to the board.

“On behalf of the entire board, I am delighted to welcome these five distinguished leaders to the National Geographic Society’s board of trustees,” said board chair Jean Case.

“Collectively, their global expertise and knowledge will prove invaluable as we continue our ambitious mission to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world by using the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling.”

The appointments, according to the NAT Geo, mark two milestones for the 134-year-old organization, with the board now achieving gender parity in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as improving women's representation in leadership positions.

Dr. Kahumbu, the only African on the list, has a long list of achievements and is the first explorer to hold the position.

“Kahumbu has been part of the National Geographic community for 12 years; in June 2021 she was named the Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year,” NAT Geo said in a statement. 

 Paula is an extraordinary ambassador for our Explorer community, and her insights add a critical new voice to our board to ensure we remain at the forefront of exploration and discovery.”

Ms. Kahumbu is a well-known conservationist who spearheaded the "Hands off our Elephants" campaign, which was lauded for its efforts and success in educating Kenyans about the importance of elephant conservation.

According to the NAT Geo, Kahumbu's efforts resulted in an 80 percent reduction in elephant poaching over a five-year period.

 Ms Kahumbu who serves on the boards of the Prince Albert II Foundation and the Maun Science Park Botswana also won the 2021 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year and the 2021 Whitley Gold Award. 

On the academic front, Kahumbu holds a Ph.D in Ecology from the Princeton University.