"I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Jamie Chan as Planet Bee Foundation's new Executive Director. Dr. Chan brings a remarkable blend of expertise in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and STEM teacher training, along with a deep-seated passion for sustainability, environmental education, and addressing the challenges of climate change. Her visionary approach fosters a love of learning, and her dedication to serving students in high-needs communities amplifies Planet Bee’s mission to empower communities, protect our planet’s pollinators, and promote climate resilience. As I step into the role of Development Director, I look forward to continuing to support Planet Bee’s growth and impact under Dr. Chan’s exceptional leadership. " says Debra Tomaszewski, Founder and Development Director.
Dr. Chan earned a Bachelor of Science in Zoology before beginning her career in taxonomic research at the California Academy of Sciences as a master’s candidate. During this time, she was awarded an NSF GK-12 Teaching Fellowship, partnering with the San Francisco Unified School District to enhance science education. Her commitment to STEM teacher education led to a 14-year tenure at San Francisco State University (SFSU), where she served as the Director of Operations for the Center for Science and Math Education. Her commitment to social justice in education culminated in earning her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from SFSU in 2022, where her research focused on anti-racist practices and the intersection of climate/food justice in STEM education.
Most recently, she served as the Director of Programs and Partnerships at the iconic Gardens of Golden Gate Park which includes the Conservatory of Flowers, The Japanese Tea Garden, and the San Francisco Botanical Garden. In her leadership role, she developed innovative programs with diverse partners and led initiatives to advance their mission of connecting people to plants, the planet, and each other.
Jamie still serves as an adjunct professor, training future educators in the Graduate College of Education at SFSU. She co-founded Fog City Gardener, promoting sustainable urban agriculture, and is a steering committee member of Sisterhood Gardens, a food security site. Additionally, she sits on the board of Foodwise, supporting sustainable agriculture and education in San Francisco.
Throughout her career, Dr. Chan has championed causes aligned with Planet Bee Foundation’s mission, including food justice, urban agriculture, and environmental stewardship. Her personal commitment shines through her hands-on experience gardening, beekeeping, and raising chickens with her family in San Francisco.
Board president and Co-Founder, Bill Tomaszewski states “Under Dr. Chan’s leadership, we look forward to expanding our programs and deepening our impact in schools, communities, and corporate environments. Her vision and expertise will undoubtedly guide Planet Bee Foundation into an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.”
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jamie Chan to the Planet Bee Foundation family!
Comments