Graduating the Next Generation of Conservation Changemakers

Congratulations to the 2026 graduating class from the Institute for Integrative Conservation (IIC). We are so proud of you! 

 

 IIC graduating class of 2026. Photo credit, IIC. 

On May 15, we celebrated the graduation of 32 undergraduate students who were majors or minors in integrative conservation or were what we fondly describe as “honorary majors”—students who worked with the IIC on long-term projects. Seeing this talented bunch fledge the nest is a bittersweet moment. We greatly enjoyed working with them, but it also means “goodbye for now”.  

This amazing cohort engaged in multidisciplinary projects, often centered on the needs of local communities, at locations around the world. This included Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Nepal, the Philippines, and various sites around the US. They were focused on important questions, such as how to reduce conflict between people and large carnivores, how to connect habitat while keeping animals off the roads, how to mitigate water insecurity in the face of climate change, how to support entrepreneurship and livelihoods in remote rural communities, and how to effectively integrate traditional knowledge and ecological research, among many other topics. 

What all these projects had in common was a co-generation process: listening to conservation partners and then collaboratively working toward solutions that are good for people and planet.  

Through this collaborative process, students honed their teamwork, project management, and essential listening and communication skills, while practicing empathy and inclusive leadership.  

 

Staircase selfie with the IIC 2026 graduates. Photo credit, Robert Rose. 

The graduates of the IIC are ready to hit the ground running in their emerging conservation careers. This bunch has already made great strides and will join various conservation and humanitarian NGOs, agency, and private companies, while others are immediately entering graduate school in conservation, environmental science, and public administration. They all give us great hope for the future.  

One of the most touching moments of the IIC Commencement ceremony was our opportunity to read out personal comments submitted by each graduate. These were self-reflective, awe inspiring and, at times, tear-inducing.  

Many students commented on the fundamental impact of their research experiences on their education and personal growth. For example:  

The summer I spent in Kenya for the Conservation Research Program… this place and the people here have helped me grow into the person I am today. I cannot express how thankful I am to my professors, mentors, and peers for contributing to the most memorable four years, and for instilling in me a love for life and learning. 

Students also commented on the supportive community the IIC has fostered that helps students find their voice and passions.  

What makes the program so special is the genuine care that the faculty have for students. It is unique to have professors who go so far out of their way to help their students succeed and who focus on building personal relationships to create a supportive and welcoming environment. My favorite memories with the IIC come from the Friday coffee hours. What seems like a simple gathering over coffee and snacks has introduced me to so many new people and projects and has deepened my connections with faculty and students. The IIC has truly created a special environment for all of us, and I know that these connections will last long after I have left William and Mary. 

This supportive community extends beyond graduation and helps people to stay connected and supported. One graduate commented:   

Some of my favorite memories with the IIC are from the annual homecoming parties. The IIC has grown a lot since my first homecoming at the old house on N. Boundary Street, but there is still such a strong sense of community that I don’t think any other department here has. 

The cornerstone of these connections and sense of belonging is the incredible mentoring by our dedicated IIC faculty and staff. We prioritize mentorship in every aspect of our work, whether that is teaching, research, or leading initiatives and programs.  

The IIC introduced me to Professor Sapana Lohani, a one-of-a-kind mentor and professor who transformed my experience both in and outside the classroom. One of my most meaningful experiences in Williamsburg has been volunteering weekly with her Eco Club, where I got to share my love for the environment with local elementary students. 

As we bid adieu to this cohort of integrative conservation students, we also had the opportunity to build some new connections at the reception that immediately followed the ceremony. For us at the IIC, one of the highlights of the year is meeting the family, friends, and supporters of the graduates. We hope you had a wonderful graduation weekend.  

 

Custom-made graduation treats, including a cake with the initials of the 2026 IIC graduates. Photo credit, IIC. 

Though another academic year is in the books, our collective work begins anew. We hope to stay in contact with the 2026 graduates, welcome them back warmly with a signature grilled cheese event at Homecoming, and perhaps even collaborate on a future project as they become professional mentors of the next cohorts of emerging conservation leaders.