Madison Thayer

Dedicated Conservation Biology graduate with a strong background in outreach, environmental education, and research. Skilled in collaborative project development and data management, with hands-on experience conducting field research in diverse ecosystems. A proactive leader with a history of engaging communities and fostering partnerships to drive environmental initiatives. Passionate about advancing conservation efforts within non-profit organizations to create a sustainable future.

American Cetacean Society Student Coalition Vice President | May 2021 to May 2024

• Wrote and developed informational pamphlets and material to encourage ocean conservation in the Midwest.
• Organized and planned Earth day events on campus to draw attention to whaling and the protection of cetaceans.
• Prepared meetings and thought of creative ways to encourage student involvement.

Club for Animal Respect and Education Co-President | May 2021 to May 2023

• Reestablished the use of committees within the club, further increasing the productivity of the club and offering members more leadership opportunities.
• Collaborated with local organizations to provide various volunteer opportunities for all members.
• Kept updated files for member information and involvement.
• Sent out bi-weekly emails regarding events, meetings, and membership information.

Grant Writing for Nonprofits and Freelance Writers

Quito, Ecuador | January 2023 to May 2023

Conservation Internship at La Hesperia: Cloud Forest Reserve 

• Promoted forest preservation by creating a self led educational hike.
• Used GPS to select waypoints and worked with locals to compile relevant information on cloud forest fauna.
• Assisted lead camera trappers with rotation of cameras and data documentation.

Tiputini Biodiversity Station in Yasuni National Park

• Developed a research project on the activity and travel patterns of woolly monkeys.
• Used both focal scan sampling and GPS tracking to collect data on the feeding, locomotion, and resting behaviors of multiple common woolly monkey troops.

Bocas del Toro, Panama | January 2023 to May 2023

• Interviewed members of the public in Spanish including professors, boating instructors, business owners, and indigenous community members on the impact of tourism in their communities and condensed findings to a presentation.