Radford University
Conservation: Community and Competing Interests
Conservation Meets Community
Selu Conservancy Barn, 3215 Dry Valley Road, Radford, VA 24141
Monday, April 13, 2026, 2 to 7 p.m.
This conference will bring important conversations to life. Participants will explore the challenges surrounding public land conservation and why it matters to our communities. Through discussion and engagement, attendees will examine how democracy and active citizenship influence conservation decisions, consider the perspectives of Indigenous communities and locals and reflect on the balance between environmental stewardship and economic development. The conference also highlights local conservation resources and community partners working to protect public lands.
Keynote Speaker
Stephanie Smith
Stephanie Smith is a global water and climate strategist, transboundary facilitator, and cross-cultural bridge builder with more than 20 years of experience advancing collaborative solutions for people and the planet. She is the founder of Zephyr Mangata, a consulting firm that supports organizations and communities through strategy, facilitation, and the design of impactful convenings. Stephanie is also Co-Director of AquaVox, an international initiative that empowers youth to use media and storytelling to catalyze collective action on water and climate challenges.
Stephanie serves as Strategic Advisor to the African Center for Aquatic Research and Education (ACARE), where she supports organizational growth, facilitates annual meetings across Africa, and guides Advisory Groups and the African Women in Science program focused on the African Great Lakes (7 lakes, 10 countries). Her recent work includes workshops and convenings in Hungary, Australia, Zambia, and Rwanda. A former Vice President at Alliance for the Great Lakes, Stephanie speaks internationally on conservation, governance, and civic engagement, including at COP26 and the UN Water Conference.