ARLINGTON, VA. – The Student Conservation Association (SCA), the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Runzel as Vice President of Philanthropy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kelly Runzel as our new Vice President of Philanthropy. Kelly’s extensive experience in strategic philanthropy and her passion for environmental conservation make her an invaluable asset to our team,” said SCA President and CEO Lidia Soto-Harmon. “Her leadership will be instrumental in securing the resources we need to empower young people, protect our planet and create a sustainable future.”
Runzel will focus on leading and driving the strategy and implementation of integrated fundraising programs to ensure a diverse and sustainable revenue stream that aligns with the SCA’s strategic goals and supports long-term financial sustainability while creating equitable access to the outdoors and providing green jobs to youth in conservation.
“The SCA is a special organization that sits at the crossroads of planet protection, youth empowerment and workforce development,” Runzel said. “Philanthropic partnerships provide strategic opportunities for youth, increase wages and enable innovation. I look forward to working with my SCA colleagues and our partners to increase our Philanthropic revenue and outreach.”
For over 25 years, Runzel has been a thought leader, successfully designing and implementing programs ranging from international integrated education programs in India, China, Australia and Central Europe to employee engagement and sustainability programs for some of the world’s largest brands. Throughout her career, she has leveraged her skills and experience to develop innovative partnerships at national and international organizations, including Feed the Children and Good360. In addition, she has over 20 years of managerial experience specializing in leadership development and change management.
During her seven years at the SCA, Ms. Runzel directed the development of mutually beneficial partnerships between corporations and foundations, with the goal of increasing the number of youth opportunities in conservation. She has also expanded the SCA’s impact by increasing philanthropic revenue at the organization and expanding Urban Green programs to additional cities, including Atlanta and Northwest Indiana.
Runzel has a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communications and Political Science from Eastern Michigan University. She lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota, with her husband and son where she loves to run and fish for walleye with her family.
About the Student Conservation Association
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country. The SCA is devoted to building equitable access to nature, providing green job opportunities for young people and teaching members how to become environmental stewards. Founded in 1957, the SCA is committed to building the next generation of conservation leaders dedicated to the lifelong protection of the environment and the communities we serve. For more, visit www.thesca.org
