The Economic Times

In 1960, a 11 year old visited Colorado National Park that changed her life. 19 years later, she began protecting Americas National Parks for 35 years

Connie Lobdell Rudd transformed a childhood fascination with Americas national parks into an inspiring 35-year career with the National Park Service. Beginning as a seasonal employee, she went on to work as a ranger, planner, regional official and senior park leader. Combining her passion for education, nature and communication, Rudd helped visitors connect with national treasures while promoting conservation. She also broke barriers for women in senior management before retiring from the National Park Service in 2014.