Introducing Difference Maker Mentor: Juan Pineda

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Hey! My name is Juan Pineda and I’m a Difference Maker Mentor for the 2026-2027 NRCA CAP Program. I’m a rising junior double majoring in Economics and Environmental Science with a concentration in Sustainable Systems.

 

Since I was younger, I’ve cared about preserving outdoor spaces coming from a beach town along the Connecticut shoreline in Milford, right on the Long Island Sound. From beach runs to walking the boardwalk with my friends, the beach has a sincere significance to me. That value made me realize the challenges my hometown faces from flooding to clogged drains, I understand how fragile these spaces are. By taking care of our natural spaces, not only do we benefit but so does wildlife and  helping those who can’t stand up for themselves is incredibly important to me.

Here are the Polar Bears with Dr. Vokoun, our instructor for the day.

 

 

 

 

I carry this passion with me, so when I saw the opening for a Difference Maker Mentor role I was beyond excited. Being able to apply mentorship skills while helping students create a meaningful project that benefits their community is valuable because it’s an impact that draws me to this field. I can’t wait to see these students help their communities and not have to wait to make a difference so I’m happy to see how their projects turn out!

 

 

Juan and Sydney (one of my students) on Fisheries Day!

I’ve enjoyed working with my team, the “Polar Bears,” so far and learning about their passion and interests in making a difference. For example, some are interested in cleaning up polluted areas they have interacted with before. Others are interested in wildlife conservation and coastal flooding which are rising issues many face. My favorite memory during the CAP Field Experience week was Fisheries Day, where our teams walked around the Fenton River and caught a variety of fish. It was a beautiful day to spend outdoors, we even got to walk in the river and notice a lot about our surroundings.     

 

 

A favorite spot of mine in my hometown of Milford, CT.

 

During my free time, my hobbies include staying active and baking. My favorite dessert to make is chocolate chip banana bread. I also enjoy going to concerts and thrifting; my favorite concert of all time was seeing Clairo live in Boston with my friends. I love traveling too, whether that’s hiking trails or exploring new areas.