MLR BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Over the Summer, we have been highlighting volunteers making a difference in our community. This month, we’re pivoting slightly and highlighting a Mammoth Lakes Recreation Board member who is making a difference in our community. Board Secretary Tamara Bankson is a life-long learner who finds joy in paying her good fortune forward.
As a passionate adventurer and mother of two daughters who loves the outdoors, travel, wildlife and diverse cultures, Tamara loves her life in Mammoth Lakes. She has worked in the non-profit sector for over 20 years, spending 16 of those at San Diego Zoo Global as the Senior Operations Manager working in Guest Services, Education and Tour programs. She served on the San Diego Zoo’s Disability Access Advisory Group and chaired the Wild Heroes Military outreach and support program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and a Master’s of Business Administration from George Washington University. She is also a Certified Interpretive Trainer through the National Association for Interpretation, and a Certified Attractions Manager through the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
Believing every individual has the power to better the world through socially responsible choices and education, Tamara has traveled to Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and around the world to work with impoverished communities. She has enjoyed teaching community building, alternative livelihoods, and interpretation. “I’ve championed education, conservation, access, veteran’s services, and community support throughout my personal and professional life.” says Bankson, “I believe in treating systemic problems to reach permanent solutions and empowering people to reach their full potential.”
Tamara is currently the Executive Director of the Mammoth Mountain Community Foundation (MMCF). MMCF is a regional non-profit supporting academics and athletics for K-12 kids in the Eastern Sierra. We are so lucky to have Tamara as part of the Mammoth Lakes Recreation family!
“Go…life is not meant to be lived in one place”
Lemur on Tamara’s head in Madagascar while performing alternative livelihood training and conservation work.
About Mammoth Lakes Recreation
Formed in 2014, Mammoth Lakes Recreation’s mission is to deliver cutting edge sustainable recreation, mobility, and arts & culture opportunities and infrastructure for the benefit of the community and natural environment of Mammoth Lakes. For more information, go to www.mammothlakesrecreation.org.