Nearby Nature Milwaukee is proud to announce that it has hired Terry Evans as executive director to help rebuild and strengthen the organization after a year without paid staff. Evans’ skills are well suited to advancing the mission of supporting environmentalism and connecting residents to nature in Milwaukee’s communities of color.
Terry Evans comes to Nearby Nature after 10 years of leading the Urban Ecology Center’s Washington Park branch, where he served as senior branch director. There, he led branch operations, staff, community programming, and volunteer engagement for one of Milwaukee’s most historically significant north side neighborhoods. His responsibilities included directing community engagement for the recent $19 million renovation and expansion of the Washington Park branch facility.
Through his UEC work, Evans often partnered with Nearby Nature. He has served on the steering committee of the African American Environmental Pioneer Awards program — a Nearby Nature initiative honoring environmental professionals in the Milwaukee area — since its beginning, contributing to the recognition of Black leaders and the support of up-and-coming environmentalists.
Evans previously served as an area director with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and held leadership positions with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, where he worked on community-based programming. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to mentorship, relationship building, and creating opportunities that strengthen individuals and communities.
A proud father of three daughters and an avid football fan, Evans is passionate about serving others and building meaningful connections. His background in leading teams, cultivating partnerships and advancing mission-driven organizations makes him an invaluable asset to Nearby Nature and the communities it serves.
Board Chair Sierra Taliaferro says “We are excited to welcome Terry Evans as our new Executive Director and begin this new season of growth for Nearby Nature Milwaukee. His leadership reflects our shared vision of fostering stronger community connections through nature, and we are eager to see the organization continue to flourish under his guidance.”
Since 2017, Nearby Nature Milwaukee has worked to address the lack of access to green spaces for African American residents on Milwaukee’s northwest side, with a special focus on the Lincoln Creek Greenway that runs from Havenwoods State Forest to Lincoln Park. Through activities such as biking, hiking, paddling and service events, Nearby Nature encourages community members to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of nature while learning about climate and water-related issues.
Other programs include environmental stewardship activities on Milwaukee’s northwest side and nature education programs for youth. Nearby Nature also founded and anchors the Lincoln Creek Workgroup to plan improvements for the Lincoln Creek Greenway.
Evans can be reached at TerryEvans@nearbynaturemke.org.
Contact us at contact@nearbynaturemke.org
Nearby Nature’s office is located at the Safe & Sound facility, 4422 W. Leon Terrace, Milwaukee, WI 53216.
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