Meryl Cohen
About Meryl Cohen
Meryl Cohen serves as the Programs Director at the Amazon Conservation Association, specializing in climate change finance and REDD+ initiatives. With a strong background in political science and international development, she has extensive experience in promoting Indigenous Peoples' rights and managing donor relationships across various conservation organizations.
Work at Amazon Conservation Association
Meryl Cohen currently serves as the Programs Director at Amazon Conservation Association, a position she has held since 2022. In this role, she focuses on advancing conservation initiatives and managing programs that address climate change and biodiversity. Prior to her current role, she worked as a Program Manager at the same organization from 2019 to 2022, where she contributed to various projects aimed at promoting sustainable practices and protecting the Amazon rainforest.
Education and Expertise
Meryl Cohen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 2006. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in International Development from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, completing her studies in 2008. Her academic background supports her specialization in climate change finance, particularly in REDD+ initiatives, which aim to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.
Background in Conservation and Development
Meryl Cohen has extensive experience in the field of conservation and development. She has worked with various organizations, including Conservation International, Environmental Defense Fund, and Rights and Resources Initiative. Her roles have involved managing donor relationships, developing rights-based conservation strategies, and collaborating with indigenous and community-based organizations to advance conservation goals. Her work has included significant projects in the Amazon and Mesoamerica.
Professional Experience in Climate Change Finance
Cohen specializes in climate change finance and has a strong track record in managing projects related to land tenure and sustainable livelihoods. Her experience includes working with government and private sector stakeholders to promote Indigenous Peoples’ rights and support conservation efforts. She has also been involved in Rapid Assessment Projects in Peru, quantifying species diversity in collaboration with Conservation International.
Previous Roles and Contributions
Before her current position, Meryl Cohen held various roles that contributed to her expertise in conservation finance and project management. She worked as a Finance and Grants Coordinator at Conservation International, a Grants Administrator at Rights and Resources Initiative, and a Foundations Officer at Environmental Defense Fund. Her diverse roles have equipped her with skills in managing donor relationships and implementing conservation strategies.