Meet Tanya Colburne –New Director of Philanthropy and Engagement with the Nova Scotia Nature Trust

21 Dec 2020

An incredibly proud Maritimer, growing-up in the small, rural community of Portapique, Nova Scotia, Tanya Colburne has made it her mission to use what she does best – marketing, communications and fund development – to help put our region on the map as a prime destination to live, work, study and play.

A graduate of Dalhousie University, Tanya holds a dual degree in Science Recreation and Management. As the new Director of Philanthropy and Engagement, Tanya is excited about having the opportunity to concentrate on one of her program’s core areas of study for the first time in her career.

“One of the few focus areas from my program(s) that I have not had the chance to tap into is outdoor recreation, so I am thrilled to now have the chance to do so via my work with Nova Scotia Nature Trust, at a time when it matters more than ever before.”

Over the last two decades, Tanya has worked for some of the biggest organizations in the world, where government and stakeholder priorities and strategic growth and success were at the forefront of her work.

When asked about personal goals with this new role, Tanya responded, “Although I have more than 20 years of experience working in fundraising, marketing and communications, there is so much more I still have to learn about the work that Nova Scotia Nature Trust does. That said, once I have my feet wet, if I am truly able to contribute to bringing Nature Trust’s long-term vision to life, in a meaningful way, I will be very happy.”

With recent career highlights including the 2020 Women’s World Championships, the 2019 Memorial Cup, the 2017/2018 Stand Up, Speak Out Campaigns, and the launch of Fundy Connect in 2017, Tanya’s work has become more than a job, it’s her passion. Contributing to Nova Scotia Nature Trust’s mission to protect our province’s remarkable natural legacy is an innate next step for Tanya.

With the monumental Twice the Wild campaign to double the acreage by 2023 well underway, and additional milestones being realized regularly, it is evident the people behind the Nature Trust are the foundation.

“Ensuring I have the opportunity to meet and get to know the incredible donors, sponsors, and volunteers who support the Nature Trust in such a big way is at the top of my priority list,” added Tanya, while highlighting her enthusiasm in working with the team at Nature Trust.  “Never before have I met such a talented, dedicated, enthusiastic and hard-working group. I am honoured to be a part of the mix!”

Tanya has only been with the Nature Trust for a short time, but she says the first few days and weeks have been fantastic.

“I’ve been welcomed with open arms, and I have had the chance to delve into a little bit of everything, which has provided me with exactly what I need to hit the ground running.”

Please join us in welcoming Tanya to the Nature Trust family!

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