welcome, Paulina Jerez.
For Paulina, spending time outdoors has always been a great conduit to connecting with other people, especially her own family. Perennial visitors to our country’s national parks—from Everglades to Acadia to Sequoia—Paulina and her family treasure time on the trail. “Especially with my kids, I find walking together in nature gives us unique time to talk with each other in ways that we don’t get to do in our normal day-to-day. Hiking together with no phones, no ear-buds, no distractions… that’s special time.”
Photo: Mae Axelrod
Paulina, who serves as senior counsel for the Division of Enforcement at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, loves the fact that Natural Lands offers access to nature—free of charge—across the Greater Philadelphia region. “The beauty of conservation is that, while it ultimately benefits future generations, we get to enjoy it right now. We have such an opportunity to get even more people connected to the outdoors,” she says. “I’m energized by Natural Lands’ mission, particularly the organization’s vision for ‘Nature for All.’”
“We’re thrilled to have Paulina join us,” says Peter Hausmann, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her intelligence, expertise, and mission-driven mindset—both in her work at the SEC and in her volunteer commitments—will make our Board even stronger.”
Paulina is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and earned an MBA and JD from American University. She serves on the Board of Trustees for her alma mater, Phillips Exeter Academy. She is also a member of the Partners in Equity Council for the Philadelphia Federal Executive Board, where she works to promote inclusive and nurturing work environments across federal agencies.
“Natural Lands is very fortunate to have Paulina involved. The combination of her professional experience, commitment to equity, and energetic passion for our mission make her an ideal addition to our Board,” says Oliver Bass, president of Natural Lands.