Remembering a dear friend, colleague, and advocate for diversity and equity parks
“The reality is that we can’t survive and be happy and enjoy our lives unless we are contributing to protecting all of our natural resources, including redwoods.” —Nina Roberts, PhD
In late March 2022, our community lost an incredible friend and colleague, Dr. Nina Roberts. Above all else, Nina was a brilliant human being. She was force, moving mountains with her energy, conviction, and even her laughter. Her voice was powerful, not only in texture and volume, but also in championing social and environmental justice, conservation, and equitable access to parks and public lands. She of course understood deeply how nature can bring people a sense of connection, well-being, and joy—and that everyone has a right to experience these benefits. She delivered this message again and again with dynamic optimism and forward momentum.
When Nina gave the keynote at the League’s 2014 annual meeting, she challenged and inspired our organization, board of directors, councilors, partners, staff, and donors to reimagine Save the Redwoods League; to be proactive in helping to transform conservation and redwood parks to represent the full diversity of California. She continued to support our journey from that critical juncture. Her words resonated with us then, and they still do today as we carry on.
As an accomplished researcher and educator in the Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism (RPT) at San Francisco State University, Nina was also a fierce advocate, a connector, and a trailblazer. We at the League are so grateful for all that she has shared with us and our broader conservation community.
SF State University is establishing an endowed scholarship fund for undergraduate students in RPT and related disciplines. The League will be making a gift to the fund, and we hope our supporters will join us in honor of Dr. Nina Roberts.
“The future is bright as more people connect to nature and become stewards of our public lands, authentic voices are heard, and expanded use ultimately enhances one’s quality of life. Change is inevitable as access to parks increases and more people across demographics reap the physical, mental, emotional and intellectual benefits of immersion in nature.” —Nina Roberts, PhD
