Writer

Annie Mark

Official Title: E-news Coordinator, Conservation Patrons Program

“You don't have to be a scientist to save wildlife! Good writers are needed in every field, and conservation is no exception. Do what you love, even if you are not sure where that may lead you. It can take time to end up where you want to be, so be patient and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.”

Growing up on a farm in Ohio, surrounded by virgin forests that were in constant threat from land developers, Annie was always interested in animals and protecting the environment. However, when she received a Fulbright grant to study economics in Asia, a visit to Beijing really demonstrated how urgently we need to act to protect our planet. The smog was so bad that Annie could not see anything beyond two city blocks! Her focus immediately shifted to conservation.

To get where she is today, Annie took every writing class possible, especially advanced classes, and wrote every chance she got. Writing letters to friends overseas and keeping a journal helped hone her skills. She also entered writing contests, wrote for the school newspaper, and eventually majored in English in college. In addition, Annie read everything she could. Reading is very important because it is like research. No scientist could succeed without research, and the same goes for writers.

Annie helps create awareness about the threats to wildlife and wild places. If the people don't know what's happening out there, scientists are just working in vain. Her job is to inspire people to take conservation into their own hands and take action to protect Earth's creatures. Plus, working at a zoo is just plain fun! Annie is always inspired when she meets different conservationists, getting to be among the first to hear about WCS's amazing discoveries and breakthroughs. She loves trying to pass that inspiration on to everyday people to help get them involved in WCS's mission.

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