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Daniela Herrera
Program Analyst at Illinois Science and Energy Innovation Foundation (ISEIF)
Professional Background
Daniela Herrera is a dedicated Program Analyst with the Illinois Science and Energy Innovation Foundation (ISEIF), where she plays a pivotal role in promoting education programs centered around energy literacy. At ISEIF, Daniela leads critical data collection and analysis efforts, ensuring the organization can effectively measure the impact of its initiatives. Additionally, she manages communication and social media strategies, significantly enhancing the foundation's outreach and engagement with various stakeholders. Daniela is adept at planning both virtual and in-person events to bring together grantees, fostering collaboration and community around energy-related projects. Her responsibilities also include overseeing a diverse portfolio of grants, guiding applicants through the application process, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements once funds have been awarded.
In addition to her role at ISEIF, Daniela is an active member of the Chicago Audubon Society, where she contributes her passion for environmental conservation and education. Her commitment to wildlife protection is further demonstrated through her volunteer work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), where she has spent two consecutive years monitoring Piping Plovers at Montrose Beach. As someone who leads bilingual bird walks throughout Chicago, Daniela believes in connecting communities to nature, making birding accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their language proficiency.
Education and Achievements
Daniela holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science from Loyola University Chicago, where she honed her knowledge in ecological systems, conservation, and sustainability practices. Before earning her degree, Daniela completed an Associate’s Degree at Elgin Community College, laying a strong foundation for her academic journey in the environmental sciences.
Throughout her career, Daniela has accumulated a wealth of experience in various roles that have prepared her for her position at ISEIF. Before her current role, she served as a Program Assistant at the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, where she contributed to programs designed to promote clean energy initiatives throughout the state. Daniela also gained research experience as a Research Technician at Michigan State University, where she deepened her understanding of scientific research methods and analysis.
Her internship at the Searle Biodiesel Lab at Loyola University Chicago not only provided her with hands-on experience in renewable energy but also solidified her commitment to fostering sustainable practices in her community. Daniela’s multidisciplinary background positions her as a strong advocate for environmental health and education.
Achievements
Daniela's efforts in environmental advocacy and education have not gone unnoticed. Her role at ISEIF has contributed significantly to raising awareness about energy sustainability and enhancing literacy around energy conservation practices. Under her leadership, the organization has successfully funded multiple educational programs that have reached diverse audiences, reinforcing the importance of understanding energy usage and its impact on the environment.
In her volunteer capacity with the Chicago Audubon Society, she has helped cultivate a stronger appreciation for avian wildlife among Chicago residents. Her work monitoring Piping Plovers, a species known for its conservation challenges, demonstrates her commitment to hands-on conservation efforts, and her bilingual bird walks represent a unique and important outreach initiative aimed at bridging cultural gaps within environmental education. By leading these walks, she actively promotes inclusivity in the conservation community.
Overall, Daniela Herrera exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication within the environmental sector, and her work is making a meaningful impact both locally and within the broader context of science and energy literacy.