Speaker Date Topic
Justin Hayes, Exec Director Conservation League Apr 03, 2024 12:00 PM
Idaho Salmon and Dams; What Does the Future Hold?
Idaho Salmon and Dams; What Does the Future Hold?

Justin is the executive director for the Idaho Conservation League, an Idaho-based, statewide conservation organization working to protect the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the wildlife and wildlands that you love. The Idaho Conservation League, or ICL, is Idaho’s leading voice for conservation.

In leading ICL, Justin relies on his unique blend of science-based technical skills, public policy experience, and love of people and the outdoors. Prior to becoming ICL’s executive director, Justin served as the director of ICL’s conservation programs for 18 years.

He has a master of science in Earth Systems, focusing on ecosystem management, a bachelor of science in Earth Systems and a bachelor of arts in Human Biology, all from Stanford University.

A native Idahoan, Justin rejoices in the knowledge that his work is protecting the things that make Idaho a great place to live – our spectacular landscapes, wildlife, clean air, and clean water.

Justin lives in Boise and enjoys spending his free time hunting and fishing in Idaho’s backcountry, mountain biking, skiing, and running Idaho’s amazing rivers.

Dave Lent, Idaho Senator, District 33 Apr 10, 2024 12:00 PM
Idaho Legislative Update
Idaho Legislative Update

Native of Southeastern Idaho and grew up in Shelley, Graduate of Eastern Idaho Technical College and Idaho State University; national credential in Radiation Protection; retired site-wide Training Manager for Fluor Idaho at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) where he managed both regulatory and facility-specific training programs; served as Training Working Group chair for the Energy Facilities Contracting Group; received a Distinguished Leadership award at the Department of Energy Headquarters in Washington D.C. for regulatory reform and cost-cutting initiatives; Worked and managed radiation protection and training programs in both commercial power and Department of Energy facilities since 1980; served on the Idaho Falls School District 91 Board of Trustees for twelve years, he played a key role in replacing four elementary schools and transitioning a junior high into a successful project-based high school; elected to a third term in the Idaho Senate where he serves as Chair of the Senate Education Committee and a member of the Joint Finance Appropriations Committee.

Lara Herway, Exec Dir, Idaho Falls Civic Center Apr 17, 2024 12:00 PM
Frontier Center for Performing Arts Project
Frontier Center for Performing Arts Project

Lara Herway is a seasoned political consultant with a proven track record spanning over a decade in local, state, and federal government. With expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and messaging, she managed and advised over 40 campaigns resulting in a 88% win record. As an active lobbyist, she successfully advocates for over 30 clients to enact meaningful legislation and initiatives. Ms. Herway’s grassroots, data-driven tactics include creating and teaching campaign schools, empowering candidates with custom messaging and communication skills, and teaching legislators how to effectively utilize social media. Ms. Herway is an expert in fundraising for public/private capital infrastructure projects, local initiatives and political campaigns. Ms. Herway is the founder of Sunnybrook Strategies, the executive director of the Idaho Falls Civic Foundation and lobbyist for Risch Pisca Law and Policy. Prior to working with local and state governments, she was a beloved elementary school music teacher and middle school debate coach. Her background in education has instilled in her a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to families and communities. Ms. Herway is proud to be a fourth generation Idahoan, mother of five independent thinking children and an avid reader.

Connor Hartnett, Avian Tech, Teton Raptor Center Apr 24, 2024 12:00 PM
Raptors, Raptors and More Raptors
Raptors, Raptors and More Raptors

Connor grew up in northern Vermont as a part of a dairy farming community, spending a large portion of his childhood outside and surrounded by both wildlife and domesticated farm animals. Connor’s love of wildlife and the outdoors began there and further grew when he was able to experience new environments and animals after moving to Colorado. He attended Colorado College for undergraduate school where he received a BA in History. He moved to Jackson soon after and began volunteering at TRC in raptor rehabilitation. After a year of volunteering, Connor was extremely excited to be offered the opportunity to join the TRC staff. Favorite Raptor: Great Gray Owl and Golden Eagle.