We train the next generation

Recent triumphs

• 

  Alumni survey shows promising results!

  In fall 2025, we asked our college alumni network to share updates on their careers. The results were promising! Eighty-six percent of respondents are currently...

  In fall 2025, we asked our college alumni network to share updates on their careers. The results were promising! Eighty-six percent of respondents are currently employed, and 63% of those employed are working full-time in STEM-related careers since completing the internship. Alumni are building careers across urban environmental management and conservation as managers, coordinators, analysts, technicians, and educators. Many remain connected to New York City’s natural areas through roles with NYC Parks, the New York Restoration Project, Central Park Conservancy, and Van Cortlandt Park Alliance, while others work in federal public service with agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Park Service. Eighty percent still live and work in NYC, continuing to contribute locally. From restoring habitats and leading field crews to conducting research and educating communities, our alumni continue to grow as professionals and make a lasting impact in urban conservation.

  Learn More
• 

  Success at high school intern recruitment fairs

  Attending recruitment fairs created a great opportunity to meet and interview promising candidates for the 2026 summer SUN high school internship. Working in pa...

  Attending recruitment fairs created a great opportunity to meet and interview promising candidates for the 2026 summer SUN high school internship. Working in partnership with the Forest Park Trust and the Greenbelt Nature Center, we interviewed over 30 candidates interested in joining our programs. Students came prepared with impressive backgrounds, including advanced coursework in AP classes, prior internship experience, and leadership through scouting and other activities. These successful recruitment fairs gave us the chance to connect with motivated students eager to learn and contribute. We are excited about the strong group of applicants preparing to join us for the upcoming summer internship in Queens and Staten Island!

  Learn More
• 

  First-ever NAC summer research showcase

  At the end of summer 2025, the NAC hosted a summer research showcase that highlighted the incredible work of our year-long citywide Urban NEST (Nature, Ecology,...

  At the end of summer 2025, the NAC hosted a summer research showcase that highlighted the incredible work of our year-long citywide Urban NEST (Nature, Ecology, and Stewardship Training) fellows and high school SUN interns in Forest Park, Queens, and the Greenbelt in Staten Island. These local students were hard at work in their programs conducting environmental research across NYC’s urban natural areas. As a way for environmental practitioners, supporters, and program partners to learn about the research our fellows and interns led, we hosted a vibrant celebration of science, stewardship, networking and community. We are so proud of this next generation of environmental leaders!

  Learn More
• 

  Reflecting on the first year of Urban NEST fellowship

  From fall 2024 to summer 2025, the NAC piloted its year-long workforce development fellowship program aimed at CUNY students eager to gain relevant skills and w...

  From fall 2024 to summer 2025, the NAC piloted its year-long workforce development fellowship program aimed at CUNY students eager to gain relevant skills and work experience to be competitive candidates in local natural areas management. Seven fellows completed projects that ranged from trail mapping of the North 40 system in Floyd Bennett, to testing restoration strategies of an urban maritime grassland, to the effects of deer herbivory on different metrics of forest health. There were a lot of lessons learned, but excitingly 100% of fellows would recommend this program to other students. We are looking forward to seeing what our first group of fellows do next while also welcoming our next cohort of fellows starting in fall 2026!  

  Learn More