Russell E. Train Fellowships

For many conservationists, a fellowship is a key factor when deciding to purse a degree in conservation. Train Fellowships form a very substantial proportion of educational funding for deserving conservationists, particularly for advanced degrees in conservation. 95 percent of fellows had more than half of their educational costs covered by their Train Fellowship. More than 60 percent report that EFN funds were absolutely critical in providing access to these opportunities and more than 35 percent were able to pursue significantly better opportunities than without the award. Creating dedicated leaders with the best educational background is paramount to ensuring there is a committed corps of conservationists to advance WWF’s work around the world.

EFN strives to advance WWF’s work in the field but cannot do so without knowledgeable, experienced, and qualified conservationists that are part of partner organizations and government agencies. About 40 percent of Train fellows are working for partner NGOs in WWF priority places and another 40 percent work for universities or government agencies advancing conservation through education and policy implementation.

EFN’s goal is to provide access to improved education opportunities and to help conservationists utilize these experiences to advance their conservation work. After completing their EFN-funded studies, ninety-five percent are working at a higher level than before receiving their EFN award. Many fellows report that that their fellowships were critical to receiving their degrees which helped advance their careers. EFN alumni accomplishments include discoveries of new species, creating new protected areas, and improving the lives of local communities through natural resource management. They are responsible for supervising some 2,400 staff, managing nearly $6 million in funds, and training nearly 5,200 people per year. By creating strong conservation leaders, EFN is building the future of conservation one fellow at a time.