Roger Mustalish

2025 ACEER Legacy Award Recipient

Roger Mustalish, Ph.D. is an accomplished educator, organizational leader, and advocate for environmental and cultural stewardship. He previously served as a professor and department chair at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, where he was known for his interdisciplinary approach to teaching and his commitment to student mentorship. His academic work emphasized global engagement, sustainable development, and the intersection of culture and conservation. Since retiring from West Chester University, he has been an adjunct professor at Creighton University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology at the University of Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in zoology at Michigan State University, and a master of public health and Ph.D. in environmental health at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Mustalish also served as President of the Amazon Center for Environmental Education and Research Foundation (ACEER), an organization dedicated to protecting the Amazon rainforest through education, research, and community partnerships. Roger has been the face of the ACEER since 1996. During his tenure, he helped expand ACEER’s international collaborations, strengthened its educational programming, and championed initiatives that empowered Indigenous communities and advanced conservation science.

Across his career, Dr. Mustalish has been recognized for his ability to bridge academic insight with real-world impact. His leadership reflects a deep belief in experiential learning, cross-cultural understanding, and the power of education to inspire environmental responsibility. He continues to contribute to projects that promote sustainability, global citizenship, and meaningful community engagement.