Tobias Shepherd

He/Him

Chautauqua Lake Project Manager

Education — Programming

About Toby

I am joining Chautauqua Institution as the Chautauqua Lake project manager, which is part of the Chautauqua Climate Change Initiative (CCI). In this role, I’ll be working with Mark Wenzler, director of CCI and key stakeholders to implement science-based solutions for the ecological challenges facing Chautauqua Lake. I will also be supporting Mark’s other work in the CCI, as well as working with other teams to help connect Lake issues to educational programming.

Prior to starting this role, I have worked in a number of positions across government, non-profit and private sectors. I developed a deep love of the wilderness working as an instructor and program director for Outward Bound for eight years. Most recently, I have focused on building positive relationships and strategic agreements with municipalities to facilitate large scale projects for a communications company. I have a master’s degree in environmental science and policy. I believe both of these experiences will assist me in my new role.

Why did you choose to work at Chautauqua? What do you like about working at Chautauqua?

I believe Chautauqua is in a position to effect change on many key issues, including environmental conservation and climate change. I want to be part of that.

Professional Affiliations

Paddle Canada, Wilderness Medical Associates

Personal Interests

I love being outside as much as possible. I enjoy running, paddling, hiking, backcountry camping and whatever it takes to get my kids outside.