Dr. Thomas Easley is a connector—of people, ideas, and opportunities. With a background that blends forestry, education, and hip-hop, he has built a career on making conservation more accessible, inclusive, and relevant to the next generation. His work has taken him from academia to community outreach, always with the goal of ensuring that conservation is a space where everyone feels they belong.

With a doctorate in forestry and natural resources, Thomas has spent years helping organizations rethink how they engage with diverse communities. He understands that the future of conservation depends not only on strong science but also on strong relationships—between people and nature, and among conservation professionals themselves.

Thomas’s role in Conservation Collaborative is fueled by his passion for mentorship and retention in the field. He knows firsthand the struggles that young professionals face, from feeling like an outsider in the workplace to balancing personal identity with professional expectations. His expertise in leadership development and organizational culture helps Conservation Collaborative identify ways to support early-career conservationists so they don’t just enter the field—they stay, thrive, and make a lasting impact.

Thomas has a diverse educational background that underpins his multifaceted career in forestry, genetics, and education. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama A&M University, focusing on forestry. He then pursued a Master of Science in forest genetics at Iowa State University. Furthering his commitment to education and leadership, Dr. Easley obtained a Doctorate of Education from North Carolina State University. 

This robust academic foundation has equipped Dr. Easley to effectively integrate his expertise in natural resources with his passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, making significant contributions across academic, corporate, and community settings.