Gloria Desanker
a.k.a. Map Nerd
Science isn't just for scientists
Nature is for everyone
Information should be accessible
Growing up, I never saw people who looked like me acknowledged or celebrated in the outdoors.
Years later, and there is still a misconception about who belongs in nature, who can be a science, and who is represented in environmental spaces.
BIPOC have historically been in these spaces and continue to thrive and contribute to its succes and growth.
We belong here. We’ve been here. We continue to thrive here.
My Passion
Advocating for the representation of people who look like me and share similar experiences has been a passion of mine throughout my academic and professional career.
Being a woman of color has significantly shaped my experience in the environmental, forestry, and GIS fields and continues to shape how I want to impact these spaces.
Map Nerd Consulting’s goal is not only to share and show your stories, but to also share and spread my story in the relationships and collaborations I partake in. This Map Nerd is changed the norm of what a scientist looks like, of who belongs in nature, and breaking down barriers to the next generation of Map Nerds to come.
Shout out to some of my favorite groups that are changing the narrative
Yes! Nature to Neighborhoods
I've been volunteering with Yes! since I moved to the Bay Area. I love getting to be outside and doing fun new things with all the kids and families!
Black to Yoga
One of the first things I did when getting to Cali was taking a Black to Yoga class. And now I'm teaching with them! I hope to see you in one of my or another instructor's class! #yogaeverydayinfebruary
Black Girls Run!
Been running with BGR groups since grad school. They have really fun challenges throughout the year. I love the community and appreciate that I'm able to be out in public spaces as a way to honor those who cannot anymore #AhmaudArbery
Society for Conservation GIS (SCGIS)
I'm honored to have been nominated to the Board in 2022 but have been involved with SCGIS since undergrad. SCGIS is a great community of passionate scientists from around the world!
Heal One World
I also used to teach with HOW and still support their mission of providing low/no cost holistic preventative healthcare that are accessible to all people, not just those who have the income to afford it.
Built By Girls
So, BBG isn't really around anymore but I really loved my time volunteering with them! I met so many amazing people and students who inspire me to succeed and push myself in new ways. Here's hoping they'll be back soon!
Map Nerd Consulting is located on Muwekma, Ohlone, and Ramaytush land.
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