Rainforest canopy at Corcovado National Park
About Us

Conserving for Future Generations

The Corcovado Foundation drives initiatives that protect the extraordinary biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula through ecosystem conservation, community empowerment, and strategic partnerships.

For over three decades, we have been working to ensure that nature and people thrive together, promoting sustainable solutions that create a positive, lasting impact in one of the most biologically rich territories on the planet.

Our approach

We are local activists dedicated to preserving and protecting Costa Rica's fragile biodiversity. We leverage environmental education to engage local communities and inspire them to take action. We support both governmental and non-governmental entities in their pursuit of sustainable, balanced, and equitable development. While our focus is deeply local, our impact is global—providing environmental education and empowering local communities, with a special emphasis on women, girls, and boys.

Corcovado Foundation: Turning Over Three Decades of Experience into Lasting Conservation

Our work is rooted in years of on-the-ground presence, building knowledge alongside local communities, scientists, allies, and regional stakeholders to develop conservation solutions that address the real needs of the Osa Peninsula.

Our History

The Corcovado Foundation was born out of a mission to support the protection of Corcovado National Park and preserve the extraordinary natural heritage of the Osa Peninsula. Over time, we have expanded our reach, developing programs in ecosystem restoration, environmental education, research, species conservation, and the strengthening of protected areas. Every project we undertake reflects a story of collaboration, learning, and deep commitment to this land.

Mission

To protect the ecosystems of Costa Rica's South Pacific by fostering sustainable development and empowering local communities through environmental education.

Vision

Empowered communities leading the conservation of their ecosystems, committed to sustainable development that continuously improves their quality of life and ensures the well-being of future generations.

Our Team

Meet the dedicated professionals, board members, and advisors who make our daily conservation work possible.

FOUNDERS AND LEGACY MEMBERS

Steven Lill Coit
Past President of the Board of Directors

Steven Lill Coit

American citizen originally from Chicago, living in Costa Rica for over 30 years. Founded the Corcovado Foundation in memory of his friend Lon Willing Ramsey Junior, a passionate environmentalist.

Vinicio Zamora Chaves
Legal Advisor

Vinicio Zamora Chaves

Lawyer who partnered with Steven Lill to create the foundation with the primary goal of protecting Corcovado National Park and raising awareness among local communities and visitors.

Jim Damalas 1950-2024
2024 Honorary Member

Jim Damalas 1950–2024

"Looking back now, I was a Hollywood producer who luckily escaped the frantic pace of Hollywood in 1992."

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Francisco Delgado Mena
Executive Director

Francisco Delgado Mena

Business administrator and licensed attorney. Executive Director since 2006, with an extensive track record in conservation, environmental education, and community development in Costa Rica.

Zoraida Tenorio
Project Assistant · General Volunteer Program Coordinator

Zoraida Tenorio

Joined the Corcovado Foundation in January 2010. Actively contributes to the implementation, coordination, and administration of the organization's various projects and programs.

Ana Margarita Suárez
Accounting Assistant

Ana Margarita Suárez

With the organization since September 2005. Has transparently and efficiently managed over 100 different projects in Osa and across the country.

Shirley Quirós S.
Office Assistant

Shirley Quirós S.

Brings extensive experience in project implementation and administration. In charge of sourcing and procuring supplies, materials, and equipment necessary for the Foundation's operations.

Brayner Hardy
Field Coordinator · Eco-Community Development Volunteer Program

Brayner Hardy

Construction Engineering professional and Field Coordinator for the Volunteer Program. Focuses on environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and strengthening community initiatives.

Natalia Tapia
Environmental Educator

Natalia Tapia

Holds a degree in Natural Resources Management and Conservation. Local Tour Guide License (2019) and Community Park Ranger training with SINAC (2020).

Mayra Cano
Local Liaison

Mayra Cano

Joined nine years ago as local liaison, developing close, grassroots work with the communities of Drake. Passionate about nature and community development.

Alba
Role TBD

Alba

Biography and photo coming soon.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

William MacLachlan
President

William MacLachlan

Served as President of Mawer Management Ltd. from 1993 to 2016. Mawer manages over $78 billion in assets for foundations, trusts, pension plans, and nonprofit organizations.

Bradd Jhonson
Treasurer

Bradd Jhonson

American citizen originally from Rhode Island, living in Costa Rica since 1980. Fell in love with Costa Rica's kind people and spectacular forests the moment he arrived.

Terri Peterson
Secretary

Terri Peterson

Has spent the majority of her professional life educating others in various aspects of conservation.

Elmer Uva Beita
Representative of the Municipality of Osa

Elmer Uva Beita

Local merchant from the Sierpe area. President of the Development Association, secretary of the Education Board, president of the Sierpe District Council, and member of the Osa Municipal Council.

Stephanie Mory Villaseñor
Representative of the Executive Branch

Stephanie Mory Villaseñor

Bachelor's in Ecological Tourism (UCR), Licentiate in Sustainable Tourism Management (UNED), and Master's in Protected Natural Spaces (Autonomous University of Madrid). 12 years with SINAC in ACOSA.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Inga Gusarova
Advisory Committee

Inga Gusarova

Passionate about nature, people, and science. Works and volunteers with nonprofit organizations united by the pursuit of systemic change.

Bill Callejas
Advisory Committee

Bill Callejas

Political Science graduate, brand strategist, and creative director. Founding partner of Dauntless Creative. Relationship with Costa Rica spans over 30 years.

Michelle Long
Advisory Committee

Michelle Long

Successful social entrepreneur helping nonprofits increase their social impact. Specializes in organizational strategy, fundraising, and community engagement.

Rayna J. Levin
Advisory Committee

Rayna J. Levin

Biology degree from James Madison University. Landscape designer for 8 years. Moved to Costa Rica in 2005. Active in community environmental initiatives.

Josie Humbert
Advisory Committee

Josie Humbert

18-year-old from Chicago. Volunteered in 2021 on Regenerative Agriculture and Reforestation projects. Raised $2,250 for environmental education programs.

Sara Bouska
Advisory Committee

Sara Bouska

Master of Science in Water Resources and Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources from Oregon State University. Worked for The Nature Conservancy and Watershed Councils.

Helena Pita
Advisory Committee

Helena Pita

Biologist specialized in Ecology and certified Environmental Educator. Leads the Foundation's education programs since 2012.

Mariel Vega Rojas
Advisory Committee

Mariel Vega Rojas

Digital marketing and communications specialist. She has coordinated the Corcovado Foundation's digital strategy since 2018.

Together, we can protect Corcovado for future generations

Whether through donations, volunteering, or partnerships, your support creates a lasting impact in one of the most precious ecosystems on Earth.