Nicholas Institute Board of Advisors

Frances Beinecke
Frances Beinecke is president of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), one of the nation’s most effective environmental action group. Frances became NRDC's second president after assuming the helm in 2006. Before becoming president, she served as executive director from 1998 through 2005 and has been with NRDC for more than 30 years.

NRDC uses law, science and the support of 1.2 million members and online activists to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things.

Frances's inspiring leadership is informed by a strong background in ecosystem studies. She received her bachelor's degree from Yale College and a master's degree from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies.

Frances co-chairs the Leadership Council of the School of Forestry, serves on the advisory board of Yale's Institute of Biospheric Studies and School of Management, and is a member of the steering committee of the Energy Future Coalition. She has also served on many boards, including Yale University, the World Resources Institute, and presently, the China-U.S. Center for Sustainable Development and the American Conservation Association.