Communitopia is thrilled to welcome aboard Mark Reardon, our new Director of Education, to begin on March 14th 2022! This is the first time in the history of the organization that we have been in a place where we can dedicate a Director-level position to advancing education on climate change in our region. As the Director of Education, Mark will oversee all aspects of Comunitopia’s educational initiatives but will pay particular attention to our educator and district-facing programs. Mark will run our Climate Change Teacher Fellowship program, our Climate Education Happy Hours, the PA cohort of the Summer Institute for Climate Change Education, as well as support area school districts in developing Climate Action Plans and passing Climate Action Resolutions.

Mark brings to the position more than two decades of experience advocating for positive environmental change through the development and facilitation of STEM programs. While previously serving as the Assistant Curator of Conservation Education at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Mark was responsible for managing school programs, outreaches, family programs, teacher workshops, and summer camps. Mark holds a B.S. in Recreation, Park, & Tourism Management and an A.S. in Wildlife Technology from Penn State University. When away from work, he can usually be found outdoors. His favorite pastimes include hiking, camping, kayaking, and running. He believes that personal growth occurs best when he challenges himself to get outside of his comfort zone, while staying well within his abilities.

“We are beyond thrilled to welcome Mark onto the team. He stood out as a true fit from the get go and we feel so blessed that he’ll bring his talent, experience, skills and passion to Communitopia,” shares Katie Modic, Executive Director. “This organization has big plans and Mark is well poised to lead the charge!”

To contact Mark, please email: mark@communitopia.org