Samira Malone

Samira Malone is the National Urban Forestry Portfolio Lead at Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), managing an initiative at the forefront of urban forestry development. With USDN set to spearhead a five-year program starting in 2023, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, Samira’s leadership will be pivotal in enhancing equitable access to urban tree canopy, fostering community engagement, and advancing climate resilience efforts and supporting their ecosystem of implementation partners across the country. Previously, Samira served as the Executive Director of the Cleveland Tree Coalition, orchestrating collaborative efforts to grow a sustainable urban forest in Cleveland. Through her leadership, the Coalition achieved milestones like strategic planning, grant programs, and successful advocacy and platform building, amassing over a million dollars in support.

As an urban planning practitioner, Samira holds a bachelor’s in Urban and Regional Planning, a master’s in urban planning and development, and GIS certification. Her dedication extends beyond her professional roles; as a proud Cleveland native and Chair-elect for the Urban Forestry Commission, she champions community and environmental justice as her personal and professional praxis. In her free time, she loves to travel around the world, visit museums and other cultural centers, cook for loved ones, and enjoys being active.