“Jay” is one of three Co-Executive Directors for New Jersey Conservation Foundation. He has been working to protect New Jersey’s landscape and environment for over 40 years. Prior to joining the nonprofit land conservancy sector, Jay spent nearly 30 years in various roles in the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Beginning his career as a Project Manager for the nationally recognized Green Acres Program, he worked his way up to ultimately become the Program’s Administrator, leading land acquisition and park development programs in the most densely developed state in the nation. Jay was Assistant Commissioner for Natural and Historic Resources where he oversaw multiple Divisions and offices including Parks and Forestry; Historic Preservation; Fish and Wildlife; the Green Acres Program; Shore Protection; Dam Safety and others. In 2006 Jay was appointed Deputy Commissioner of NJDEP, the title from which he retired from State government service in 2010. Throughout his career he has advocated for the protection of those special natural lands, habitats and historic sites throughout New Jersey, while also consistently and fervently advocating for enhancing the environment and quality of life in our State’s urban areas and particularly in engaging communities of color to enjoy our natural lands and seek career paths in the field. Jay lives in Lawrenceville, New Jersey and is a proud graduate of Mercer County College and Florida A&M University, Tallahassee Florida.