Public Programs

Register below for free monthly Public Programs via Zoom

Jay Watson with Kestrel nestling

Adelie Penguins © Sharyn Magee

Diversifying the Conservation Movement & Engaging the next Generation of Environmental Leaders

September 18, 2023 at 8:00 PM
Virtual Program via Zoom

John “Jay” S. Watson, Jr.

“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.

Prior to Coronavirus-19, programs were held indoors at the Pennington School

Programs were held at Stainton Hall auditorium at the Pennington School on the 3rd Monday of each month, from September to May. Time: Refreshments served at 7:30 pm; program begins at 8:00 pm. We strive to feature engaging speakers and interesting topics for our lecture series. If you have any recommendations for topics or speakers for one of these programs, please visit our contact page and let us know. All our programs are free and don’t require advance registration!

Stainton Hall, Pennington School
112 West Delaware Avenue
Pennington, New Jersey 08534

FYI:  There is a new entrance to The Pennington School campus off W. Delaware Ave just a few feet to the west of the old one.  It leads to a new parking lot immediately behind Stainton Hall.  For now, one can use both entrances, but parking at the new one is less crowded and conveniently close to the rear entrance near the south side of the building.