Claire Hebbard

Expertise

Evaluation planning • Goal setting • Survey development

I support the social research work of the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature. Researchers from the Cornell Lab develop knowledge, technologies, and educational resources with the goal of informing leaders, motivating change, and increasing the diversity and sustainability of our world. The Center’s goal is to inspire everyone to connect with birds and nature in order to increase knowledge, collaborate on data collection through citizen science, and essentially address global conservation challenges.

Researchers want to know—does their work here actually help the public better understand the science? Support their journey to conservation careers and science? To feel more connected to nature? In my work, I collaborate with program leaders on identification of how their resources impact the public. Together we plan and implement evaluations, develop surveys, and analyze data to better understand how progress toward the Lab’s goals. My current work also includes research on how inclusive and equitable leadership strategies in Citizen Science programs help to strengthen youth interest in science careers.

Education

M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy, Syracuse University
M.S. in Clinical Nutrition, NYS Chiropractic College
B.A. in Psychology, Houghton College
A.A.S. in Agricultural Science, SUNY Morrisville

Outside the Cornell Lab

I grew up on a farm in Central New York, and my first love was for the horses, cows, chickens, dogs and cats on that farm. I always seemed to get along with animals better than people, and I spent many years working with these animals. In high school and college my favorite subjects were math and biology. I had three children before I returned to college as an adult learner, and was given the opportunity to study psychology.

My college experience led me to integrate my personal experiences into a sense of purpose. My education, skills, and experiences all came together for me when I secured a job at Cornell University working with farm families. Over the years I gained skills in outreach, education, project management, and evaluation. In January 2021 I was offered my current dream job research position where I could both collaborate with great people involved in science, nature, and conservation, and at the same time have the ability to focus on data collection and analysis.