The Future of the Tropics is the Future of the World (2024)

Josh fosters understanding of tropical nature's significance for human welfare. He manages 400+ employees and a $35M budget, overseeing research facilities in Panama and field sites worldwide. With 30 resident scientists and 1,400 annual visitors, he drives research and public awareness of tropical ecosystems. Joshua's extensive scientific background in biodiversity, sustainability, and conservation, along with his adept management of international projects, enhances STRI's collaboration with the Smithsonian and global scientific community. His communication skills bridge diverse audiences, ensuring continued growth and impact in tropical research and education.

Ellen oversees its scientific research centers and science museums such as the National Museum of Natural History. Championing the "Our Shared Future: Life on a Sustainable Planet" initiative, she drives collective research in biodiversity, climate change, and environmental justice. As the first woman to direct the National Air and Space Museum, she spearheaded its flagship building's renovation and celebrated the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. With over 25 years in space-related roles, including as NASA's chief scientist, Stofan's expertise spans planetary geology and exploration. A prolific author and esteemed trustee, she's recognized for her contributions to science and society.

Cristian spearheads efforts in nature protection, restoration, and food system transformation. Formerly, as President & CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), he managed the largest urban wildlife park network and directed global conservation programs in over 60 countries. Prior roles include Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History and founding director of Colombia’s Alexander von Humboldt Biodiversity Institute. With expertise recognized by the UN Convention on Biological Diversity and the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, he contributes significantly to global conservation efforts. A member of prestigious organizations, Samper's background includes biology studies at Universidad de Los Andes and postgraduate education at Harvard University.

En oversees the regional impact investment portfolio across Southeast Asia and China for the world's largest family-owned private banking and asset management group, managing over USD 260B in assets. He serves on multiple boards within LGT's portfolio organizations and is a Partner at Lightrock, LGT's global impact investing platform. With a background at Goldman Sachs and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, En is a respected figure in the industry, contributing to various advisory groups such as the World Economic Forum ESG Advisory Group and the Asia Investor Group on Climate Change. Additionally, he actively participates in sustainable finance initiatives with organizations like the Monetary Authority of Singapore. En's commitment to impact investing is evident through his involvement in diverse advisory and leadership roles, emphasizing his dedication to driving positive change in finance and beyond.

Stuart delves into ecological and evolutionary influences on rainforest communities worldwide and uncovers how environmental factors shape species distributions and ecological processes. Stuart's leadership drives ForestGEO's scientific direction, coordinating sites, securing funds, and expanding scientific impact globally. Previously, he managed the Asia Program for the Center for Tropical Forest Science and served in academic roles at Harvard University and the University of Malaysia Sarawak. Stuart earned his PhD from Harvard University in 1996, contributing significantly to the understanding of forest diversity and dynamics.

Mirei is a driving force in environmental activism. Chairing Marea Verde, a Panama nonprofit combatting global plastic pollution, she exemplifies local action for global impact. With notable government roles including Minister of Environment and Administrator of the Panama Environmental Authority, Mirei's leadership spans public and private sectors. A distinguished Fellow of the Aspen Institute's Central America Leadership Initiative and recipient of the McNulty Prize 2023, she actively contributes to environmental and social progress. Mirei's affiliations include Audubon Americas Advisory Committee, Biomuseo, International Women's Forum Panama, and Women's Corporate Directors-Panama.

Matt specializes in marine ecology and biodiversity. His research focuses on understanding the intricate connections within marine ecosystems, particularly in coral reef environments. Through innovative methods such as DNA sequencing and ecological modeling, he unravels the complexities of species interactions and ecosystem dynamics. Leray's work contributes to broader efforts aimed at conserving and preserving marine biodiversity in the face of environmental challenges. With a commitment to scientific inquiry and conservation, he plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of tropical marine ecosystems and their conservation.

Alfredo drives strategy for the Ocean Action Agenda and Friends of Ocean Action, fostering sustainable transformations in business and policy. With expertise in public-private partnerships, he addresses marine conservation, fisheries management, and the blue economy's acceleration. Alfredo's efforts strengthen scientific integration into marine policy across 15+ countries. Previously, as an André Hoffmann fellow at Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions and the World Economic Forum Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), he pioneered scientific and technological solutions against illegal fishing. A Roger Revelle awardee recognized by the US National Academy of Sciences, Alfredo holds a PhD and MSc from Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a Bachelor's from Universidad Autonoma de Baja California.

With interdisciplinary expertise spanning economics, marine affairs, and environmental studies, Ana brings over two decades of experience in international development and conservation. Dr. Spalding's research delves into drivers of global change and their impacts on vulnerable communities, advocating for community-based solutions. Through interdisciplinary approaches, she advances resilience science, focusing on marine resource-dependent communities in California and Oregon. Committed to collaboration, she works towards innovative and equitable solutions to social-environmental challenges in ocean governance.