Welcoming Our New Director of Education, Vera Figueiredo

Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey is excited to welcome Vera Figueiredo as our new Director of Education. A first-generation American, Vera grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and spent her summers with her grandparents in Portugal. It was during these summers, working on the family farms, that she developed a deep appreciation for the vital connection between humans and the natural world. Vera earned a bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry, followed by a master’s degree in environmental sciences from Miami University.

Since 2008, Vera has built a strong foundation in both environmental science and education, working with various organizations and schools. Most recently, she spent five years at Solar One, where she developed and implemented sustainable energy STEM programs and solar workforce training for Newark Public Schools. Prior to her time at Solar One, Vera was an environmental science teacher at the Hunterdon County Environmental Sustainability & Engineering Academy. Her diverse experience in both formal and informal education has shaped her belief in empowering communities with the resources to achieve long-term environmental and social goals.

In addition to her professional background, Vera is a NABCEP-certified PV Associate and a certified Union County Master Gardener. She enjoys collaborating with fellow master gardeners to promote the therapeutic and ecological benefits of vegetable and habitat gardening. Vera’s passion for the natural world drives her to explore and share the hidden beauties of the Garden State.

We are thrilled to have Vera on board as she brings her expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm to our mission of wildlife conservation and science education.