Felicita Wight

Experience

• 

  University of Rhode Island | The Nature Conservancy

  Jan 2007 - Jan 2007

  Research Intern

  Conducted field studies and primary research for a phenology survey titled “The Effects of Fruiting Shrubs on Migratory Birds”.

• 

  RPS ASA Group

  Jan 2008 - Jan 2011

  Specialist, Ocean Science

  Managed data, synthesized research, and maintained literature databases for the Minerals Management Service which included supporting 3 major research papers. Launched a comprehensive digital and hard-copy library system to catalog documents and publications.

• 

  Deepwater Horizon BP Oil Spill Response I National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

  Jan 2010 - Jan 2011

  Shore Marsh Team Coordinator

  As the headquarters coordinator, I managed the logistics of the scientists in the field offices for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In this role, I contributed and collaborated to improve oil spill response methodology.

• 

  Hobe Sound Nature Center I Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

  Jun 2012 - Jun 2017

  Naturalist I Environmental Educator

  Spearheaded the growth of grassroots programming by introducing cutting-edge outdoor exhibits and nurturing parterships, emphasizing a steadfast dedication to environmental education and engagement. I initiated and oversaw high school and undergraduate internship programs, established a strategic partnership and implemented a targeted outreach strategy that not only fostered heightened community participation and to ensure inclusivity and sustained engagement, effectively elevating community involvement and awareness of the organization.Key achievements:• Led the expansion of grassroots programming, introducing innovative outdoor exhibits and securing funding, highlighting a commitment to environmental education and engagement.• Initiated and managed high school and undergraduate internship programs and formed a strategic partnership with Michigan State and the Fish and Wildlife Service.• Successfully developed and executed a targeted outreach strategy, fostering increased community participation and created a comprehensive program plan ensuring inclusivity and engagement raising community involvement and awareness. Show less

• 

  Wild Tiger

  Jan 2015 - Sept 2024

  Program Director

  Co-founded a nonprofit organization with a dedicated focus on Bengal tiger conservation and habitat preservation, showcasing my unwavering commitment to the protection of wildlife. Through these initiatives, I have actively contributed to the broader mission of wildlife conservation by combining advocacy, education, and mentorship to address and tackle pressing environmental challenges.Key achievements:• Developed an educational activity guide on wildlife trade aligned with Next Gen Science Standards, promoting awareness and education on crucial conservation issues.• Founded and led a successful 9-month leadership mentor program, overseeing three cohorts and fostering the development of future conservation leaders. Show less

• 

  American Geophysical Union

  Jan 2017 - Jan 2019

  Executive Program Manager

  In my role as Program Manager at the American Geophysical Union, I played a pivotal role in translating abstract ideas from the CEO, Board, and Executive Steering Committee into a concrete and actionable 3-year plan for the association's 100th-anniversary initiative, which amounted to a $4 million investment. As the key coordinator, I managed the planning and implementation processes, serving as the primary liaison between internal and external teams. I oversaw committees to ensure the program's integrity, success, and lasting legacy. Throughout the program's life cycle, I meticulously handled project planning, work plans, reporting, and implementation to deliver a successful and impactful centennial celebration. This multifaceted program earned the prestigious American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Silver AwardKey achievements:• Developed, managed, and recruited for AGU Celebrate 100 Grants program that awarded $800,000 for grassroots engagement activities. Engaged two million people in over thirty countries. *ASAE Summit Award - Global Development.• Directed design and content creation of an interactive, physical, and digital exhibit for AGU headquarters lobby. Managed an advisory board of over 150 scientific experts.\• Launched and managed all aspects of AGU Narratives, a storytelling program. Recorded and archived over 200 stories in partnership with NASA and StoryCorps. Led and supported a committee of AGU fellows to design an open-access journal. Show less

• 

  Felicita Wight Strategies

  Jan 2019 - Jun 2022

  Independent Consultant

  EarthShare – Corporate Partnerships Consultant:Spearheaded the research and authorship of inaugural publications for paid employee engagement programs, receiving positive feedback that facilitated the transition from a one-time report to the establishment of an annual publication tradition, enhancing corporate partnerships and engagement strategies.Endangered Species Coalition – Grassroots Organizing Lead:Directed teams of 12-15 volunteers in grassroots organizing and coalition building, playing a pivotal role in advocacy efforts that successfully established wildlife corridors and crossings in Pennsylvania and Colorado, significantly advancing conservation initiatives.Phi Delta Kappa Intl – Digital Learning Platform Developer:Developed a comprehensive digital learning platform (EDX) for the Inspired2Teach online curriculum program, enhancing accessibility and engagement for educators and learners while promoting innovative teaching practices.SciLine – Research Consultant (AAAS):Conducted extensive research and inputted information for over 2,000 science matter experts, contributing to the creation of a robust database that supports effective science communication and enhances public understanding of scientific issues. Show less

• 

  Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

  Sept 2019 - Dec 2020

  Operations Associate

  As an associate, I guided and engaged visitors, assisted with special events, and helped to develop content for K-12 educational programming and on-boarding curriculum.Key achievements:•Successfully piloted a cutting-edge virtual reality program for a special event period. • Wrote a comprehensive onboarding curriculum for Operations staff and • Developed content for K-12 educational programming.

• 

  Partnership for the National Trails System

  Feb 2021 - Apr 2022

  Operations Coordinator

  Being the first Operations Coordinator for the Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS), I worked closely with the Board of Directors and volunteer leaders to implement communications and administrative efficiencies. I have instituted policies and procedures and assisted in developing their annual work plans. I oversaw grants and cooperative agreements in this role, including communications with federal agency partners. Key achievements:• Revitalized operational procedures by enhancing bookkeeping, development, and database management, resulting in a substantial increase in efficiency and streamlined processes.• Administered federal agency grants, facilitating smooth collaboration with a wide range of partners, including coordination with 35+ diverse trail groups.• Collaborated on project and logistical support for 10+ volunteer leadership committees and ad hoc working groups, leading to heightened volunteer engagement and improved communication processes for the Board of Directors and Executive Director. Show less

• 

  USFRA — US Farmers & Ranchers in Action

  Apr 2022 - Oct 2023

  Programs and Events Manager

  Demonstrated competency in organizing, developing strategy and tactics, and program planning, coordination, and implementation. I have addressed operational inefficiencies at U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action (USFRA) by identifying underperforming areas and maximizing resource allocation. I manage the strategic planning across programs and departments to identify and help develop resources, training, and guidance to support. In this role, I coordinate the full lifecycle of the event planning process for the program's multi-day annual forum. Key achievements: • Supported the CEO in developing and fostering high-impact relationships. Recognized untapped potential in nurturing network partners and optimizing stakeholder engagement.• Established a quarterly frequency for engagement, resulting in an improved overall customer experience for partners.• Led the management of the multi-day annual event, engaging high-impact stakeholders across the value chain, transforming it into a VIP event. Streamlined the invitation process, designed engagement campaigns, curated speakers, managed contractors, and provided full project management visibility for the team. • Initiated a program plan for annual virtual partnership meetings and in-person events. • Developed comprehensive organizational policies, implemented effective data management practices, and set brand standards to better engage the network Show less

• 

  Felicita Wight Strategies

  May 2024 - now

  Independent Consultant

  As an experienced independent contractor, I specialize in operations management, event coordination, and strategic communications across diverse organizations. I am dedicated to optimizing processes, enhancing community engagement, and driving successful initiatives that align with organizational goals. My collaborative approach and attention to detail allow me to contribute effectively at both the operational and strategic levels.National Audubon Society – Event Coordinator (COP Events):Responsible for assisting in the planning and execution of COP events for the national office, ensuring effective logistics and stakeholder engagement. Key responsibilities include coordinating with internal teams and managing event communications to maximize participation and impact. By focusing on detailed logistics and community outreach, I contribute to the success of Audubon's conservation initiatives at the COP gatherings.CCAP Winchester – Operations Assistant and Events Manager:As Operations Assistant and Events Coordinator at CCAP Winchester, I spearhead data management projects to enhance data integrity and streamline reporting processes for decision-making. I support the planning of major community events focused on ensuring seamless execution and high community engagement. Additionally, I identify operational improvements that enhance the overall efficiency of event planning and organizational outreach efforts.Kol Ami: Northern Virginia Reconstructionist Community – Operations and Communications Manager:As Operations and Communications Manager, I lead executive-level planning and streamline processes for High Holidays and community events. I focus on enhancing operational efficiency and improving our digital presence through optimized website updates and targeted social media campaigns. My role involves cross-departmental coordination to ensure seamless communication among congregation and staff, significantly boosting member engagement and event participation. Show less