746 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine SOCIAL SERVICES AND NONPROFIT An avid conservationist and anthropologist, James D. Nations serves as the director of the Center for Human Ecology in Rockville, Maryland. Specializing in conservation projects in Latin America and the United States, he is passionate about advocating for the rights of Indigenous populations. Prior to his current endeavors, Dr. Nations held the role of vice president for the Center for Park Research at the National Parks Conservation Association in Washington, DC, which he joined in 2003. Previously, he worked as the vice president for Latin America at Conservation International, beginning in 1990. Well-regarded for his wide-ranging experience in conservation and anthropology, Dr. Nations is a published author; his most recent book, “Lacandón Maya in the Twenty-First Century: Indigenous Knowledge and Conservation in Mexico’s Tropical Rainforest,” was released in 2023. An excerpt from the book appeared in the November 2023 issue of Natural History Magazine. Other highlights include his role as an international advisor to the team of Guatemalan conservationists who created the Maya Biosphere Reserve in 1990. Looking ahead, Dr. Nations intends to continue writing new books and advocating for the protection of biological diversity and Indigenous territories. DIRECTOR, SENIOR RESEARCHER Center for Human Ecology Rockville, MD Carol F. Polk leverages over 40 years of multifaceted experience as the executive director of Pivot Ministry Inc. The nonprofit organization follows the Christian Women/Men’s Job Corps model of empowering economically disadvantaged individuals and helping them to improve their life and employment opportunities within an inspirational Christian framework. Offering comprehensive classes in life skills, job readiness, Bible study and individual mentorship sessions, Pivot Ministry boasts an impressive graduation rate of more than 75% of its participants, who are mostly women without children. Notably, all educational sessions are led by dedicated volunteers or sourced from the local community. Prior to her work at Pivot Ministry, Ms. Polk distinguished herself in numerous leadership roles across a wide array of industries, including consumer goods, global sourcing, computer hardware, and legal and financial services. In addition to her professional success, she has also contributed extensively to various nonprofit ventures, including the NCBH Foundation, United Way and various church organizations. In honor of her achievements, Ms. Polk was bestowed with the Women’s Empowerment Award by YWCA Winston-Salem in 2023. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Pivot Ministry Inc. Winston Salem, NC CAROL F. POLK JAMES D. NATIONS
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