For Karla Suckling, undergraduate and graduate experiences in geography at the University of Northern Iowa laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to conservation and organizational leadership.

“Through meaningful engagement with exceptional faculty and peers, I developed both a deep understanding of our natural systems and the critical thinking skills needed to navigate complex, real-world challenges,” Suckling said.

Today, Suckling serves as Director of Strategic Operations for the North America Region at The Nature Conservancy. Since joining the organization in 2006, she has held a variety of roles spanning conservation work with endangered species, staff development, project management, board engagement and organizational operations. Across each position, she has remained focused on creating the conditions that allow both people and mission-driven work to thrive.

In her current role, Suckling partners with leaders and teams across the Conservancy to advance strategic priorities in sustainability, operational excellence, development and corporate relations, and organizational culture. Known for her systems-thinking approach and collaborative leadership style, she works closely with executive leaders to strengthen communication, build trust and foster environments where teams can do their best work.

“I often say — only half joking — that in my work we’re not ‘saving the planet’; we’re working to sustain the conditions that allow humanity to thrive,” she said. “That perspective was grounded during my time at UNI, where I gained a clearer understanding of ecological limits, critical thresholds and the interconnectedness between human and natural systems. Those academic experiences planted the seed for how I approach conservation today — as both an environmental and human imperative.”

Suckling earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Geography and her Master of Arts in Geography from UNI. Her graduate research focused on human-environment interactions and their impacts on human health.

Looking back, she credits the department not only for providing a strong academic foundation, but also for fostering a supportive community that continues to influence her work.

“I’m incredibly grateful for my time at UNI — not only for the academic foundation it provided, but for the community and relationships that supported my growth and continue to influence my work,” she said.