Dr. Mamie Parker is a trailblazer in conservation leadership, known not just for her expertise in fisheries and wildlife management but also for her deep commitment to mentorship and diversity in the field. With a career spanning decades in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, she made history as the first Black woman to serve as Chief of Fisheries, breaking barriers while shaping policies that protect our nation’s natural resources.

Her background in ecology, policy, and executive leadership gives her a unique perspective on the challenges facing both conservation professionals and the organizations that employ them. She understands the pressures young professionals face—navigating complex institutions, proving themselves in demanding fieldwork, and finding a sense of belonging in a historically exclusive field. As a co-author of the chapter “Women of Color in Wildlife: Stories of Support and Setbacks” in the book Women in Wildlife Science: Building Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Mamie has helped amplify the voices and experiences of underrepresented professionals, furthering the conversation on equity in conservation.

Mamie’s role in Conservation Collaborative is deeply personal. She knows that investing in people is just as important as investing in conservation itself. Through Conservation Collaborative, she lends her expertise in organizational leadership, mentorship, and strategic planning to ensure that new conservation professionals feel supported, valued, and equipped to thrive. Her passion for fostering inclusive work environments makes her an essential voice in shaping a stronger, more resilient conservation workforce.

Mamie’s educational journey laid a strong foundation for her pioneering career in conservation. She earned her B.S. in Biology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (1980), followed by an M.S. in Fish and Wildlife Management and a Ph.D. in Limnology from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (1987). Her doctoral research focused on contaminants and fisheries in the Great Lakes and its tributaries. Additionally, she completed executive leadership training at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, further strengthening her ability to drive meaningful change in conservation leadership.