Our People

Elizabeth Koehler

State Director, Wisconsin

Madison, WI

A woman with blonde hair smiling at the camera.

Elizabeth Koehler: Elizabeth directs TNC’s work in Wisconsin © Jim Schumaker

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Fundraising, Board Engagement, Organizational Effectiveness, Strategy Development

Biography

Wisconsin State Director Elizabeth Koehler leads a team of professional and volunteer conservation scientists, practitioners, fundraisers, policy experts and advocates working to protect land and water through targeted action and productive partnerships. A lifelong lover of Wisconsin, Elizabeth joined The Nature Conservancy in 2000 as a member of the philanthropy team and served most recently as deputy state director.

Working closely with colleagues, volunteer leaders and donors, Elizabeth has helped raise more than $90 million for conservation priorities in Wisconsin and around the world. She participated in the teams that protected St. Martin Island in Lake Michigan and launched an initiative for Sheboygan River water quality through farmer collaboration. She partners with the Wisconsin Board of Trustees to shape and implement multi-year conservation plans and to build strength through diversity across every level of the organization. Elizabeth co-led the effort to create a new 3-year strategic plan (2020-2023) for TNC in Wisconsin that will guide the chapter’s efforts to partner with others in tackling the most urgent conservation challenges facing people and nature.

Elizabeth received a B.S. in Communication and B.A in English Literature from Miami University in Ohio. She enjoys trail running and swimming in Wisconsin’s wild places, climbing at Devil’s Lake State Park, cycling the Driftless Area, travel, theater, and music with her husband, David, and friends and family.

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In the News

  • A woman in a green shirt kneels as she installs solar panels.

    Where Renewable Energy Goes Will Be Key

    Guest column by Elizabeth Koehler in the Wisconsin State Journal about the importance of siting renewable energy right to protect our communities, wildlife and natural areas. Read More

  • A stream winds through green marsh at sunset.

    This Is What Makes Our Community Special

    Elizabeth Koehler interviewed about the importance of the work land trusts do to protect special places in nature. Read More

  • Elizabeth Koehler sitting at a desk.

    Keeping it Green

    Inspired by childhood memories in Wisconsin’s Northwoods to join The Nature Conservancy, Elizabeth Koehler takes the helm to guide TNC’s work in Wisconsin. Read More