Allie Pecenka

A lifelong resident of Southwest Florida, Allie grew up in Cape Coral and spent much of her childhood exploring the ecological treasures of Sanibel and Captiva. She knew from an early age these barrier islands were a special place that she would do anything to help safeguard. Her love of the islands and all the biodiversity calling them home inspired her to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology & Conservation from the University of Florida.

During her summers, Allie worked extensively at a children’s summer camp teaching nature studies, showing her the inherent connection between youth outreach and protecting the future of our ecosystems. While pursuing her Master’s degree, Allie served as a contributor to projects aimed at improving social-environmental governance within Indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest region. She has also worked in coral conservation and restoration in the Florida Keys and feels passionately about education on the topic. As Policy & Advocacy Associate, Allie works closely with SCCF’s Policy team to translate science to policy and influence positive change for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.