Carol B. Schwalbe | Executive Director and Board Member
As the executive director of the ODD Foundation, Carol B. Schwalbe leverages her extensive background in journalism, education, and environmental communication to lead and innovate the organization’s mission. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Carol brings a wealth of experience and a passion for impactful storytelling to her role.
Armed with a master’s degree in anthropology from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in American studies from Smith College, Carol’s academic foundation provides her with a profound understanding of cultural and historical contexts. This background has been instrumental in her professional journey, which began at the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C. There, Carol made a significant mark as a writer and editor. The impact of her work was felt as she worked alongside renowned figures such as Peter Benchley, leading the creation of the National Geographic Website and contributing to National Geographic magazine and books. Her career at National Geographic magazine culminated in her role as Senior Text Editor, where she shaped some of the magazine’s most influential content and honed her expertise in environmental and cultural storytelling.
Following her tenure at National Geographic, Carol transitioned to academia, where she excelled as an award-winning educator and administrator. She first joined Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. There, Carol led international programs and led many award-winning student projects and publications. Her academic journey continued at the University of Arizona’s School of Journalism where Carol founded the science journalism program and served in various roles. At the University of Arizona, Carol served in many leadership roles, including director of graduate studies and director of the school’s summer journalism workshop for high school students and, later, the director of the School of Journalism. Her leadership also extended to mentoring faculty and serving on non-profit boards, such as the Western National Parks Association, and the Altar Valley Conservation Alliance.
As Executive Director of the ODD Foundation, Carol applies her lifelong passion for science communication and environmental advocacy to oversee all content and projects, including the Desert Ecology Project. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to creating meaningful impact, fostering strategic partnerships, and enhancing community engagement, ensuring the Foundation’s mission is accomplished with excellence and clarity.
Carol holds a master’s degree in anthropology from George Washington University, focusing on urbanization in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. Her academic foundation is complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in American studies from Smith College. Her educational background equips her with a deep understanding of cultural and historical contexts, enhancing her ability to guide the organization’s strategic initiatives.
Carol’s excellence in teaching and innovation has been recognized through numerous awards. Over the years, Carol has garnered acclaim, including the University of Arizona Provost Award for Innovations in Teaching and the Journalism & Mass Communication Teacher of the Year by the Scripps Howard Foundation. Her work has been honored by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication multiple times, reflecting her commitment to advancing educational practices in journalism.
As Executive Director, Carol is dedicated to advancing the mission of The ODD Foundation by fostering strategic partnerships, enhancing community engagement, and driving initiatives that align with the organization’s goals. Her leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to creating meaningful impact and a dedication to excellence in all facets of her work.