The Explorers Club

When I began filling out the Explorers Club application, imposter syndrome kept creeping into my head. I’m not worthy of this esteemed recognition, I told myself. The work I’ve done pales in comparison to thousands of notable explorers on the roster. But, as I started writing about my accomplishments over the years, the cultural and scientific organizations that I support, the expedition companies I've represented, the honors, awards, and special recognition I’ve received, the lectures and various seminars I’ve given, the podiums I’ve stood at, the keynotes delivered, the stages I’ve graced, the blogs, articles, and books I’ve written, the adventurers I’ve mentored, the panels I’ve sat on, fieldwork I’ve done, citizen science service I've participated in, media appearances I've been privy to, etc, I took a step back. This compelled me to take a broader look at all that I have accomplished, rather than the microscopic approach I had been focusing on. Broad brush strokes, Susan!

 

I reviewed the Club's website: "WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR: You need not have climbed Everest, dived to the deepest point in the ocean, or discovered a new dinosaur. But we are looking for individuals who have gotten their hands dirty and their feet wet working in the field as participants in one or more documented scientific expeditions." OK, I thought, keep working.

 

And that work yielded dividends. Yes, this is momentous. I’ve always believed that we only conserve what we love and we only love what we understand. I’ve always been inspired by people—many of whom are Explorers Club members—who are champions of our world’s fragile ecosystems, who strive to help people understand. Over time, my own Inside Passage expeditions have become a springboard for my life’s work, leading me on a path of discovery as an author, public speaker, photographer, and a women explorer who has the growing ability to inspire and influence others. Going forward, I'd like to see my work contribute to the preservation of the remarkable coastlines along British Columbia's central coast (specifically the Great Bear Rainforest), and the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska. Through my continued work I hope to inspire a deeper understanding of, and foster a deeper connection to, these fragile marine ecosystems, ultimately inciting a call to action for this planet we call home. The honor of being an Explorers Club member will be a powerful conveyance to this goal.