Summer Ritner

With more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership, Summer is deeply committed to biodiversity, the protection of imperiled species, and translating complex science work into compelling philanthropic opportunities. Summer spent a decade with Detroit’s Belle Isle Conservancy and Aquarium, managing operations, community engagement, and philanthropic initiatives. At the Aquarium, she directed flagship education programs, community science programs, and an interpretive initiative for the facility’s captive axolotl population, connecting hands-on conservation science to high-impact public engagement and fundraising. She also led partnership development with scientific, environmental, and community organizations to advance amphibian, reptile, and broader biodiversity conservation across the region. Summer holds a Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law and a BA in Psychology, Summa Cum Laude, from California State University, Sacramento. When she’s not working, you’ll find her outdoors gardening, hiking, swimming, or playing with her dogs.