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Anne LaBastille: Trailblazer and Hell Raiser
Leslie Surprenant in conversation with ADKX Director of Interpretation Cheryl Braunstein
September 7, 2020| 7:30 pm
Explore the life and legacy of Adirondack “Woodswoman” author and internationally-recognized conservationist Anne LaBastille, PhD. Through this discussion, Leslie Surprenant, a long-time friend and LaBastille’s estate executor, shares the exceptional life story of this trailblazer.LaBastille’s pioneering work in wildlife ecology in the U.S. and Latin America earned international recognition including the World Wildlife Fund Gold Medal for Conservation, the Explorers Club Citation of Merit, and Society of Women Geographers Gold Medal. Her life and legacy continue to inspire and support new generations of conservationists and authors.
Presenter: Leslie Surprenant is an Adirondack native and was a long-time friend of conservationist and author, Anne LaBastille. LaBastille surprised Leslie by nominating her to execute her estate—which Leslie learned only after LaBastille’s death in 2011. Since then, Leslie has worked hard to build a lasting LaBastille legacy from Anne’s bold and aspirational vision. She shares photos, stories, and presentations on the remarkable life and ancestry of this trailblazer.Leslie is retired from a 35-year career as a biologist with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and is a professional ski instructor, NYS Licensed Guide, and home project DIYer.