The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Today, Cheryl Lombard of The Nature Conservancy was recognized as one of the Arizona Capitol Time’s Leaders of the Year in Public Policy for her efforts to bring together diverse coalitions for land and water conservation. 

“Being recognized by the Arizona Capitol Times is a tremendous honor for Cheryl and well deserved,” said Patrick Graham, state director for the Conservancy in Arizona. “She’s worked tirelessly to bring together various interests and find the common ground to conserve Arizona’s most important lands and rivers. Her work will benefit both people and nature for generations to come.”

As government relations director, Lombard works with government officials, interest groups and local communities to shape and promote policies that ensure abundant fresh water, clean air, wild spaces and plentiful wildlife remain essential parts of Arizona for future generations. Most recently, the Conservancy worked with the Arizona Legislature to pass off-highway vehicle protections, important water funding and protections while leading state trust land reform. 

The Arizona Capitol Time’s Leaders of the Year in Public Policy began in 2007 to recognize excellence in several categories including education, health care, transportation and the environment. This year’s ceremony featured Keynote Speaker Aaron Brown, former CNN anchor and current Walter Cronkite Professor of Journalism at Arizona State University. Governor Jan Brewer, Senate President Robert Burns, House Speaker Kirk Adams and Senate Majority Whip Steve Pierce also gave remarks.