Jennifer Parkos

Jennifer Parkos joined the National Wildlife Federation in January 2020 as the Director of Philanthropy for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Jennifer is based in Essex, Massachusetts, on the North Shore of Boston – home to a large portion of the Great Salt Marsh, New England’s largest and most important wildlife habitat. She is responsible for building relationships with the generous people that make National Wildlife Federation’s work possible.

Jennifer has spent nearly her entire 20-year nonprofit career leading development efforts for organizations that support underserved communities. Her expertise includes major gift development, capital campaign management, Board development, and event production. She has held leadership positions for some of the most well-respected, high-performing, national and Boston-based nonprofits, including serving as: National Director of Resource Development, City Year; Chief Development Officer, KIPP Charter Schools; and Director of Development, The Greater Boston Food Bank.

From Jennifer:

Growing up in Newport, Rhode Island, as a daughter of Greek immigrants, the ocean was home. From scavenger hunts for periwinkles, mussels, and horseshoe crabs to multi-generational family picnics on the shore – it was a place where I played, learned and connected with family. Later in life, I ventured into the mountains to experience their beauty and grandeur. Today, an avid hiker and cyclist, I climb New England mountains year-round and cycle quiet roads and trails. I marvel at the stillness of winter, the wildflowers peeping through the snow in spring, the brilliance of fall foliage, and the wonder of observing wildlife in its natural habitat in all seasons. I travel abroad as much as possible to experience and appreciate nature and its role in different cultures.

Wildlife, and spending time in nature with family and friends, has had a profound impact on my life. I believe in a just, equitable, world; and am passionate about bringing together a diverse group of people to ensure wildlife, all people, and our planet thrive for all future generations to cherish.