Blanca Hernández,
Director of Programs & Partnerships
Blanca O. Hernández (she/her) is the Director of Programs & Partnerships at YES Nature to Neighborhoods, where she brings a strengths-based, healing-centered approach to designing culturally responsive, nature-based programs that cultivate the leadership, belonging, and well-being of BIPOC youth, families, and communities in Richmond.
She earned her B.A. from the University of San Diego and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Natural Sciences and Environmental Education. Blanca is the recipient of Bay Nature Magazine's 2023 Environmental Education Local Hero Award and the 2024 California 8th Congressional District Woman of the Year Award. In 2026, she was also featured in the Science is People Powered exhibition at the Lawrence Hall of Science, recognizing her contributions to community-centered environmental education and leadership.
A passionate advocate for equity, environmental justice, and access to nature, Blanca frequently shares her expertise at regional and national conferences, including the Children & Nature Network Conference, the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), and through collaborations with leaders across the environmental education and outdoor sectors.
Beyond her role at YES, Blanca has served on several boards and steering committees, including the Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education (AEOE) and TOGETHER Bay Area, where she has helped advance equitable practices and strengthen partnerships that support social and environmental justice throughout the region.
Outside of work, Blanca finds joy in lifelong learning, painting, permaculture, and spending time outdoors with friends, family, and her beloved dogs, Bo and Bella.